I’ve been out of the loop....does it look like it was the
fault of the Fitzgerald?
Collisions are usually the fault of both ships underway, usually one more than the other. COLREGS require you to take early and effective action to avoid a. Illusion regardless of who is the “burdened vessel” (required to give way). The only exception is if one is broken down (not under command) and unable to maneuver, but even then she responsibilities to communicate her status to other vessels (Red over Red, the Captain is Dead).
It doesn’t matter, the Navy has the smaller more maneuverable ship. The Captain should still be relieved.
Those ships can stop on a dime or go to full speed in 4 football lengths of the ship.
They can turn so fast they can nearly capsize themselves.
Container ship damage at port (left) side of bow. Fitz damage starboard 40% back from the bow.
Looks like the Fitz did not see the container ship and ran across its right-of-way.