OR
Major FUBAR?
I do not know any details, but I would check for any leftover Rules of Engagement that would require no Radar emmissions close to certain coastlines, or EMCON execise. Or something that would make the freighter’s transponder the sole source of detection.
Bad rules of engagement seem to usually negate technological advantages quicker that any technological counter-developement.
“New stealth cloaking mechanism being tested by an enemy?”
New stealth cloaking tested by us, watching smugglers maybe?