Another Naval Collision

It is surprising to learn of another collision between a U.S. warship and a cargo vessel in the Far East. Once again it involves significant loss of life among U.S. navy personnel. In the earlier incident serious disciplinary penalties have been applied to several crew members, starting with the captain. We do not know the cause of this latest collision, nor who will be found at fault in which vessel. Certainly we feel for the families of those injured and missing.

It may be that these similar incidents represent the pure coincidence of misfortune. or it may be that some kind of update is required to the rules of navigation of modern warships in crowded waters. Perhaps all navies should review their procedures, not just that of the U.S.