BREAKING NEWS — Firefighting ships with the Japanese Coast Guard were deployed off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, after a fire broke out onboard the USS New Orleans (LPD-18), a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock of the U.S. Navy.

Footage from the scene shows plumes of smoke rising from the vessel as Coast Guard crews worked alongside U.S. Navy personnel to contain the blaze. The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed, and officials have not released details regarding injuries or damage.

The USS New Orleans is a key part of the Navy’s amphibious fleet, designed to transport Marines, equipment, and aircraft into conflict zones or humanitarian missions. Its presence in the Pacific underscores the U.S. military’s strategic posture in the region.

The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions, making the fire a significant concern for both U.S. and Japanese authorities. An investigation into the cause is expected once the fire is fully extinguished and the vessel is secured.