Not possible.
Reports say the descent to the wreck was 2.5 hours and the sub went ‘silent’ 1 hour 45 minutes into its descent.
I maintain that it imploded at loss of contact, evidenced by the USN’s refusal to participate in the ‘rescue’ (because they knew the sub imploded).
I also maintain that the ‘banging’ was a smokescreen to protect UW intel capabilities.
evidenced by the USN’s refusal to participate in the ‘rescue’ (because they knew the sub imploded).
—
For others:
They knew because their sonar buoys heard the implosion and the position was immediately know and the cause identified.
They could say nothing because it would reveal the extent of their undersea listening means, compromising national security.
The implosion event would be loud and identifiable. The Navy has hydrophones all over the place. Did anybody admit to hearing anything?