Soviet Frigate Rams USS Yorktown in Black Sea
February 12th, 1988
February 12th, 1988

How Long Ago?
37 years, 1 month, 2 days ago
Location
Black Sea
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
Cold War
People
- Captain John M. Pomeroy
- Admiral Vladimir A. Shcherbakov
Links & References
- Cold War
- 1988 Black Sea bumping incident
- USS Yorktown (CG-48)
- Ukrainian frigate Dnipropetrovsk
- Territorial waters
- Innocent passage
Tags
Soviet Frigate Rams USS Yorktown in Black Sea
The U.S. missile cruiser USS Yorktown was intentionally rammed by the Soviet frigate Bezzavetnyy in the Black Sea. This occurred while the Yorktown claimed innocent passage through Soviet territorial waters. The incident highlighted increasing tensions during the Cold War and raised concerns over naval confrontations.
USS Yorktown claimed innocent passage.
Bezzavetnyy collided intentionally.
Incident escalated Cold War tensions.
Concern over naval confrontations grew.
What Happened?
The incident began when the USS Yorktown, a guided-missile cruiser, was operating in the Black Sea, an area of significant strategic importance during the Cold War. The cruiser was on a scheduled mission, asserting its right to innocent passage through waters that the Soviet Union claimed as territorial. As the Yorktown attempted to maneuver, the Soviet frigate Bezzavetnyy deliberately collided with the cruiser, which was a blatant act of aggression and highlighted the extreme tensions that characterized U.S.-Soviet relations at the time. This confrontation took place during a period where both superpowers were engaged in aggressive posturing to assert their naval dominance in contested regions, particularly following the conclusion of the Reagan administration's policy of military expansion aimed at countering Soviet influence.
Following the incident, there were immediate concerns regarding the safety of naval personnel and the potential for further escalations between the two superpowers. The U.S. Navy had to assess potential damages and repercussions from the collision, and the event fueled diplomatic tensions, leading to further discussions and posturing in international forums. The act of ramming was condemned by the U.S. government and was seen as part of a larger pattern of risky naval encounters in the hostile environment during the later stages of the Cold War.
Why Does it Matter?
This incident is interesting as it serves as a key example of the high-stakes military tensions between superpowers during the Cold War. It illustrated the dangers of miscommunication and miscalculation in international waters when military assets are involved, emphasizing the need for clear communication and protocols to prevent conflict escalation. The event contributed to naval strategy discussions in both the U.S. and the USSR, underlining the importance of maritime navigation rights.
Discover More Historic Events from February 12th
Macedonia Renamed to North Macedonia
In a significant political move, the country known as Macedonia officially renamed itself the Republic of North Macedonia following the Prespa Agreement. This agreement was aimed at resolving a long-standing naming dispute with Greece, which had previously objected to the use of the name 'Macedonia.' The name change was celebrated as a step towards enhancing relations between the two nations and furthering North Macedonia's aspirations for NATO and EU integration.
Continue ReadingPope Francis and Patriarch Kirill Sign Declaration
Pope Francis and Patriarch Kirill met in Havana, Cuba, marking the first meeting between leaders of the Catholic and Russian Orthodox Churches since their split in 1054. The two leaders signed an ecumenical declaration aimed at fostering unity among Christians and addressing global issues such as religious persecution and humanitarian crises. This groundbreaking encounter symbolized a significant step toward healing the long-standing rift between the two denominations.
Continue ReadingColgan Air Flight 3407 Crash in Clarence Center
Colgan Air Flight 3407, operated by Bombardier Dash 8 Q400, crashed into a house in Clarence Center, New York, while on approach to Buffalo Niagara International Airport. All 49 people on board were killed, alongside one person on the ground. The crash occurred shortly before midnight, highlighting issues with pilot training and safety protocols in regional aviation.
Continue ReadingSan Francisco Issues Same-Sex Marriage Licenses
In a landmark move, the city of San Francisco began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples, spurred by a directive from Mayor Gavin Newsom. This decision was largely influenced by the growing national conversation around same-sex marriage and civil rights. The City Hall became a hub for couples wishing to marry, with emotional scenes as partners exchanged vows and licenses, emphasizing the need for legal recognition of their relationships. The move marked a significant challenge to state laws, which at the time did not recognize same-sex marriages.
Continue ReadingIran Airtour Tu-154 Crash Near Khorramabad
A Tupolev Tu-154 operated by Iran Airtour crashed in the mountains while approaching Khorramabad Airport, resulting in the deaths of all 119 people on board. The aircraft, a key player in Iran's domestic aviation, encountered difficulties during its descent, leading to the tragic accident. It highlighted the challenges faced by the aviation sector in mountainous regions and prompted discussions about air travel safety.
Continue ReadingSlobodan Milošević's Trial Begins in The Hague
The trial of Slobodan Milošević commenced at the United Nations International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, located in The Hague, Netherlands. This significant legal proceeding focused on charges of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide during the Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s. Milošević, who had served as the President of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, became the first sitting head of state to stand trial for such serious international crimes. The trial attracted considerable media coverage and public attention globally, highlighting the complexities of international law and accountability.
Continue Reading