Saudi Tanker, Taiwanese Frigate Collide Near Taiwan's Port

A tanker belonging to Saudi Arabia, NCC Sama collided with a berthed Knox-class frigate Ning Yang (FF-938) of Taiwanese Navy on March 9 on arrival to Keelung Port, Taiwan.

The collision took place when the tanker was maneuvering in harbor to unload 3,000 tons of ethylene glycol, Taiwan News reported Saturday.

The frigate suffered dents while information regarding damage caused to the tanker is not known. There was, however, no leaks reported from the either ships.

Tanker is to be detained after completing cargo operation. No explanation given yet on cause of collision.

Ministry of Defense said it would seek compensation for the damage to it ship "according to the law."

The Ning Yang served as the Knox-class frigate Aylwin in the US Navy from 1971 to 1992 before it was sold to Taiwan. The frigates, now known as the Chi Yang-class, patrol along Taiwan’s eastern coast with submarines as their major concern.