Incorrect Gasket Caused Flood, Fire on Navy Sub
A flood and fire aboard the Navy research submarine Dolphin that led the captain to order sailors to abandon ship was the result of the wrong gasket being installed on what should have been a watertight door, a Navy report concluded Tuesday.
The Dolphin was 100 miles off San Diego on May 21 when water began gushing inside, causing a fire in the electrical system. The submarine was towed back to San Diego for repairs.
A report by submarine experts with the U.S. Pacific Fleet criticized crew members for not noticing the improper gasket, although it also commended several sailors for bravery in fighting the fire and flooding.
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