I'm no expert on naval tactics, especially the dispersal range between vessels, but I'd guess the best way to protect a task force from that which you mention is to deploy in depth and use some sort of a screen forward with those hair trigger orders and ROE. The important thing is to notify (in a subtle and discreet manner) your potential foe (if a state of war does not presently exist) of the changes.
The message being: Okay you managed to score on our friends from the UK and now we are going to reinforce. IF you try that same crappola with US, this is what is going to happen....you have been warned. No further warnings will be issued.
What do you think 'Zilla? Would you agree?
I agree, there needs to be a no-nonsense diplomatic warning with the naval forces armed to the teeth and ready to rumble to back it up. In follow-up, the Brit destroyer designated to back-up the kidnapped inspection teams could not go to them because the water was too shallow and was unable to provide support from their position in time. Bet the Iranians had been keeping that operation under surveillance for a while looking for a reason to strike realizing British inability to stop them.