About this Unit
USS Hurricane (PC-3) is a Cyclone-class patrol coastal ship of the United States Navy, commissioned in October 1993. Designed for coastal patrol and interdiction, Hurricane has supported a variety of missions including maritime security operations, anti-terrorism patrols, and the protection of high-value assets. The vessel has operated in key regions such as the Persian Gulf, participating in exercises and real-world operations alongside allied navies. Throughout its service, USS Hurricane has contributed to the Navy’s littoral warfare capabilities, ensuring the security of vital waterways and maritime infrastructure.
Historical Facts
• Commissioning: USS Hurricane (PC-3) is a Cyclone-class patrol coastal ship commissioned by the United States Navy on 15 October 1993.
• Ship Name Origin: The vessel is named "Hurricane" after the powerful tropical storms, reflecting its speed and agility. It's the third U.S. Navy ship to bear the name.
• Primary Mission: The USS Hurricane was designed for coastal patrol and interdiction, focusing on special operations support, such as insertion and extraction of Navy SEALs.
• Operation Enduring Freedom: The ship participated in Operation Enduring Freedom, conducting maritime security and surveillance in the Arabian Gulf.
• Size and Speed: At just over 179 feet long, the Cyclone-class ships like Hurricane are among the smallest commissioned warships in the U.S. Navy, but can reach speeds of up to 35 knots.
• Homeport: For much of its service, USS Hurricane was homeported in Manama, Bahrain, as part of the U.S. Fifth Fleet, helping protect vital maritime interests in the Persian Gulf.
• Joint Exercises: The ship participated in numerous joint exercises with allied navies, enhancing interoperability and maritime security in the region.
• Armament: Hurricane is equipped with a 25mm chain gun, machine guns, grenade launchers, and Stinger missiles, making her well-armed for her size.
• Decommissioning: The USS Hurricane was officially decommissioned on 20 March 2023 after nearly 30 years of service.
• Legacy: Throughout her career, the USS Hurricane contributed to anti-piracy operations, counter-smuggling missions, and the defense of key oil infrastructure in the Middle East.
