As the American vessel travels forward with stealth in the murky waters of the ocean depth it encounters resistance and troubles of all sort. A Russian submarine nearly sinks the sub with a torpedo. But with a quick release of depth charges, and rapid maneuvering the ship survives. But it has sustained damage, primarily in its propulsion system. The vessel approaches crush depth, deep in the ocean as it descends with no means to move.
Power goes out and everyone waits for what they feel is certain death.
But the second in command of the ship keeps his cool. A communique is sent from headquarters to the sub. The message states to arm the ships nuclear missiles and fire them. As the ship prepares for fire protocol procedures, another commmunique is received. But the message is cut off due to a damged antenna, and only part of the message is received.