USNS RAPPAHANNOCK INCIDENT
JULY 16, 2012

1.

1050Z (1450 GST, 2:50pm UAE local) – Vessel reported as a
contact of interest due to proximity and speed (Reaching 5
nautical miles, Speed of 20-25 knots ).

2.

1051Z (1451 GST, 2:51pm UAE local) – Vessel approached
1200 yards on same bearing, and then vessel turned
inbound toward Rappahannock.

3.

1051Z (1451 GST, 2:51pm UAE local) – Embarked Security
Team initiated first level of defensive, non-lethal warning
procedures. Vessel, now at about 900 yards, ignored
warning and continued toward Rappahannock.

4.

1052Z (1452 GST 2:52pm UAE local) – Embarked Security
Team initiated next level of defensive, non-lethal warning
procedures. Vessel, now at 150 yards, ignored warning and
continued toward the Rappahannock.

5.

1052Z (1452 GST, 2:52pm UAE local) – Embarked Security
Team fired shots at the vessel as it approached 100 yards.
Vessel slowed for the first time and turned to port, passing
astern of Rappahannock and proceeding up the port side of
the U.S. naval ship.

6.

1052Z (1452 GST, 2:52pm UAE local) – Embarked Security
Team re-initiates non-lethal procedures with the vessel
which is now port side to Rappahannock, at about 90 yards.

7.

1053Z (1452 GST, 2:53pm UAE local) – Vessel stops
completely and Rappahannock goes to full speed to
separate from vessel. Vessel seen departing area (see
photo).

RAP

TIMELINE OF EVENTS

7

4

5
6

3

2

USNS RAPPAHANNOCK
LAT: 25°.08.7N
LON: 054°.56.1E
C/S: 160T, 3-5KTS
COI DESCRIPTION:
TYPE: SKIFF
FLAG: NONE
SIZE: 50 FT
IDENTIFYING MARKS:
WHITE/BLUE
COMMS GEAR: NONE

1