SINGAPORE: A US warship damaged after colliding with a merchant vessel east of Singapore on Monday is sailing under its own power and heading to port, the US Navy said.

"Search and rescue efforts are underway in coordination with local authorities," the Navy said in a statement posted on the website of the Commander of the US Pacific Fleet.

"In addition to tug boats out of Singapore, the Republic of Singapore Navy ship RSS Gallant, RSN helicopters, and Police Coast Guard vessel Basking Shark are currently in the area to render assistance," it said.

The statement said MV-22 Ospreys and SH-60S Sea Hawks from USS America were also responding.

COVER IMAGE: The guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain approaches the aircraft carrier USS George Washington for a fueling at sea in this handout photo from December 5, 2010. US Navy/Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Cheng S. Yang/Handout via REUTERS/Files