Hate to pop your bubble but from what I know of “Rules of the Road,†and CBDR - Constant Bearing Decreasing Range - and observing the location of damage on both vessels it appears the ships were in a “crossing†situation. That means the navy ship was the “give way†ship and the cargo ship was the “stand on†vessel. The stand on is required to hold course and speed, the give way is required to get out of the way. Turn left and slow speed. This will increase range and the bearing will be drifting right. There’s more but that should help everyone understand what might have happened. Having sailed/ raced sailboats all my life, and served in the submarine force for 23 years I have a basic knowledge of the rules. I also have some personal knowledge of maritime accidents — my brother lost his life in the collision of the USCG Blackthorn in Tampa Bay about thirty years ago. The Blackthorn was at fault. I hope I’m wrong in the situation.
180’ Blackhull Coastie here.
USCGC Blackthorn BUMP !