The Straits Times
22 August 2017
- RSIS
- Media Mentions
- Sophisticated Technology and Anti-collision Systems but Collisions Still Possible: Experts
Sophisticated Technology and Anti-collision Systems but Collisions Still Possible: Experts
Collisions between major vessels are rare, but when circumstances conspire, even the most advanced technology and anti-collision systems cannot prevent accidents, experts said.
Maritime expert Collin Koh of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies at the Nanyang Technological University said a ship like the the U.S. guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain would have not just the primary air and surface surveillance and fire control radar systems, but also the usual navigational radar system.
It is unclear if the system had detected a potential collision. Human error also cannot be ruled out.
Mr Koh noted though that the usual procedure is for crew to not just rely on radars, but also on lookouts who scan the various areas, especially blind spots, for any potential collision hazards nearby.
IDSS / Print / Online
