USS Hurricane (PC-3) was the third vessel of the Cyclone-class coastal patrol ships in the United States Navy. Constructed by Bollinger Machine Shop and Shipyard in Lockport, Louisiana, she was laid down on November 20, 1991, launched on June 6, 1992, and commissioned on October 15, 1993, at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego, California. The ship was named after various weather phenomena, reflecting her role as a fast, agile patrol vessel. Physically, USS Hurricane was designed for coastal patrol and special operations, capable of maneuvering quickly in shallow waters. While specific dimensions are not provided here, Cyclone-class ships are generally known for their relatively small size, high speed, and versatility in littoral environments. Hurricane’s service history includes notable involvement in operations off Haiti during the early 1990s. Following the overthrow of Haiti’s president in 1991, Hurricane patrolled the Haitian coast during Operation Support Democracy, often operating alongside Navy SEAL teams. She played a role in the U.S. efforts to restore order, operating in a context of escalating international intervention that included amphibious assaults and multinational peacekeeping missions. The vessel contributed to the U.S. Navy’s efforts to maintain stability during this crisis until peacekeeping functions transitioned to international forces in 1995. In the mid-2000s, Hurricane was relocated from Naval Amphibious Base Coronado to Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Virginia, as part of a strategic reorganization aimed at countering global terrorism. The ship was adapted for new operational demands, including patrolling shallow waters, protecting oil terminals, and port security, especially in the Middle East. This shift was supported by the creation of rotational crews to maintain a high operational tempo. Hurricane’s operational focus shifted toward supporting the U.S. 5th Fleet, with her deployment in Bahrain exemplifying her role in maritime security in the Persian Gulf. She was part of a fleet of Cyclone-class ships that enhanced the U.S. Navy’s capabilities in littoral combat and security operations. The vessel was decommissioned on March 20, 2023, and transferred to the Egyptian Navy, where she was commissioned as ENS Khaled Bin Elwaled (720), extending her maritime service beyond the U.S. Navy.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.