The captain of the British ship is not to blame. His ROE did not permit him to respond on his own so he asked London for permission to respond which was denied.
The HMS Cornwall had a helo up and knew that the Iranians had left port and were heading for the boarded frieghter before the actual capture took place. The helo montitored the entire incident as it occurred.
The HMS Cornwall had a helo up and knew that the Iranians had left port and were heading for the boarded frieghter before the actual capture took place. The helo montitored the entire incident as it occurred.
You didn't say so, but are suggesting that the ROEs prevent the captain from including an adequate pretective force for boarding parties?
Very very strange ROEs...
As I recall, the Captain of the USS Cole was promptly replaced for similar reasons.
That begs the question, why did the Brits allow it to happen??
Still, poor planning in failing to provide an adequate security contingent capable of deterring aggression. Perhaps a hovering helicopter gunship? Would need precision fires to provide a decent screen to allow E&E.
In any event, even had the Rules of Engagement allowed a response, and lacking aforementioned gunship, there is little the vessel could have done. A contingent of Royal marines would have snipers available but that wouldn't be enough for cover. Raking the force with automatic cannonfire would be too much and raise the potential of incurring casualties from "friendly fire."
But SOMETHING should have been done. IMHO, the commander on the scene has to take the initiative and hang the ROE. He has the responsibility for the lives of his men. London (or DC, for that matter) aren't on the scene. The captain should be relieved for failure to do this and apply the proper amount of force to keep his men from being taken, even at the risk for starting a war. However, he did the politically correct thing which is always guaranteed to keep a career humming along by letting the GOOFS take place at the top in trying to get the personnel returned.