DATE= 10/12/00

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE= U-S SHIP/ATTACK OVERNIGHTER (L ONLY)

NUMBER=2-267867

BYLINE= ALEX BELIDA

DATELINE= PENTAGON

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: U-S officials have launched an investigation into a suspected suicide terrorist attack on a Navy destroyer in Yemen. V-O-A Pentagon Correspondent Alex Belida says the probe may lead to new security procedures affecting future port visits worldwide by U-S Navy vessels.

TEXT: The crew of the destroyer U-S-S Cole had no reason to expect trouble when the ship pulled into Aden harbor for a brief, routine refueling stop. The crew especially saw nothing to fear from a small support boat sent out by harbor authorities to assist in the mooring process.

But that small boat was apparently loaded with explosives and manned by suicide bombers. As it pulled up to the U-S destroyer, it blew up, tearing a gaping hole in the Cole's side.

U-S authorities say they still have no idea who was behind the attack or why.

Admiral Vern Clark, the Chief of Naval Operations, says there had been no threats or warnings ahead of the port call. He says other recent refueling visits by U-S ships to Aden had gone off without incident.

Because of general concerns about security in the Mideast, armed guards had been posted on the ship's deck. Other standard safety and security measures were also being observed.

But those measures were apparently insufficient. Admiral Clark says officials will now have to consider whether additional security steps are needed. (Signed)

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