[topfile]

I understand a small Navy vessel approached the lifeboat
but was immediately repelled with overheard gun fire.

[Revolting cat!]

but was immediately repelled with overheard gun fire.

Overheard? Which means it could have been merely a recording of gunfire!

[combat_boots]

“Navy vessel approached the lifeboat but was immediately repelled”

The Navy cannot fire without being given authority to do so.

The guys in that vessel & any others must be developing heart conditions or ulcers or something about now. Every step from the smaller boat would be hard getting back onboard the Bainbridge after that.

[skimask]

"I understand a small Navy vessel approached the lifeboat but was immediately repelled with overheard gun fire".

Firing on a US Naval ship on the high seas is an act of war.

What is the chosen ones take on that?