A malfunctioning control system and human error were the causes of a drone crash that damaged the USS Chancellorsville and injured two sailors off the coast of Point Mugu on Nov. 16, according to a U.S. Navy report released this week.
Two sailors suffered minor burns and a fire broke out when the 13-foot unmanned drone hit the missile cruisers hull as the ship was practicing training drills.
Initial Navy reports were redacted and had previously stated equipment malfunctions caused the crash.
A target control team at Point Mugu had launched the drone at the ship to test the ships ability to protect the crew from enemy missiles. Once the drone was close to the ship, the team ordered it to turn away and the drone ignored the command.
The crew on board the USS Chancellorsville failed to apply a “rogue drone” alert and also neglected recommendations to fire on the approaching drone.
A report from Pacific Fleet Commander Adm. Harry B. Harris Jr. described that virtually everyone involved in the exercises believed the chances of a drone hitting the ship were extremely remote, so they focused on targeting and data instead of the safety concerns.
The leadership at both Point Mugu and the USS Chancellorsville had opportunities to prevent the crash and failed to do so, according to Harris’ report.
After the findings, administrative actions were taken against the ship’s commanding officer, tactical action officer, anti-air warfare coordinator and combat system coordinator.
The USS Chancellorsville was docked at Naval Base San Diego after the strike for repairs that took about 6 months and totaled over $30 million, according to a Navy Times report.