USS Connecticut submarine strikes object underwater in South China Sea

Oct. 7 (UPI) -- A U.S. Navy submarine struck an underwater object while submerged in the South China Sea over the weekend, the U.S. Pacific Fleet announced Thursday.

The USS Connecticut struck the object Saturday while in international waters. There were no life-threatening injuries, a statement from the fleet said.

"The safety of the crew remains the Navy's top priority," the statement said.

The Seawolf-class fast-attack submarine was in "safe and stable condition" after the incident and the extent of damage to the rest of the vessel was under investigation. The nuclear propulsion plant wasn't affected.

The Pacific Fleet said it will investigate the collision.