Deep Dive: Navy Divers Clear Wreck from Palauan Waters During Pacific Partnership 2026

KOROR, PALAU 09. 08. 2026 By: Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific KOROR, Palau – U. S. Navy divers completed the removal and at-sea disposal of three abandoned derelict vessels (ADV) and significant hazardous material in Koror, Palau, as part of Pacific Partnership 2026 (PP26), Aug. 30, 2026. Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Moises Sandoval | A Palaun civilian mariner aboard the tug boat SSC “We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the United States Navy for assisting with the removal of vessels from our harbor,” said Hon. Jennifer Anson, Palau’s National Security Coordinator. “Abandoned and derelict vessels in our harbor pose a threat to our pristine ocean environment and can cause unnecessary damage to our marine resources. They negatively affect tourism, which is an important part of our economy.

Visitors come to Palau expecting to experience clean, pristine oceans and beautiful marine environments, and protecting these resources helps support our local businesses, communities, and economy. We applaud the dedication of the United States Navy in being an active partner and working alongside us to protect and preserve Palau’s ocean and marine environment for generations to come. ” U. S. Navy divers assigned to Commander, Task Group (CTG) 73. 6, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 9, and U. S. 7th Fleet’s deployed salvage force arrived in July 2026 to meet and coordinate with various local Palauan government entities and organizations, including the Koror State government, the Department of Conservation and Law Enforcement, the Republic of Palau’s Ministry of Public Infrastructure and Industries, and the Environmental Quality Protection Board. Interagency meetings were held to address the process of removing the ADVs and minimize the risk of…