PERSIAN GULF: Navy probes Strait of Hormuz collision.

The two Navy ships that collided in the Strait of Hormuz are in Bahrain while damage inspections are conducted and an investigation begins to determine who was at fault in the collision.

The amphibious assault ship New Orleans and submarine Hartford collided March 20 under conditions that have yet to be publicly explained.

Investigators believe the Hartford rolled 85 degrees during the collision, the Navy said. The New Orleans had a hole 16 feet by 18 feet ripped in a fuel tank, and two ballast tanks also were damaged.

The investigations have a 30-day deadline. The investigation into the cause includes a veteran submariner, veteran surface-warfare officer and Navy lawyers.

-- Tony Perry in San Diego

Photo: Diver enters water at Bahrain to inspect damage. Credit: U.S. Navy