I've annoyed with same problem almost for a year, and I think I finally find out a solution.
From my understanding, this "SHIP SPOTTED" bug is caused by Radar Warning Receiver(RWR) and one of the SHIII limitation.
not "on the verge of a visual range" stuff written in the GWX manual.
Kpt. Lehmann discribe in this post;
http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=103968
Quote:
OTHER IMPORTANT SENSOR FACTORS AND NOTES!
The "Command sensor" in SH3:
In SH3 only ONE sensor is actively in use at any given
time... This is true whether it is your own U-boat and
crew... or an enemy vessel or aircraft. The available sensor
with the highest maximum range is typically the "command
sensor" and OVERRIDES other sensors that may be available at
the moment.
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Because of this limitation, When U-boats equipped with RWR encounter ships/aircrafts which is emitting Radar signals, are keep receiving the signals and override its "contact" even within a visual range!
That's why the Watch officer innocently replies "No visual contact" just after the time when he shouted "SHIP SPOTTED" his own mouth.
But don't blame on him! he just feels Radar wave in his supernatural six sense!
and in this post;
http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=118604
Quote:
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also, what causes this to happen in mid game? like I said, I started a career at spt 1939, and the WO never started to act like an idot until summer of 1942.
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I thouht he had equipped FuMB-1 Matox RWR on his boat available at Aug 1942.
So, I've tested Gibraltar single mission by several types of U-boats different type of year, and I've never encountered this bug non RWR boats, such as VIIB(1939).
Therefor, to avoid this bug is simple and easy.
1. Never equip RWR on your boat.
2. Turn off the RWR temporarily by displacing the radioman out of his station.
by doing this, the Watch officer and his men start using their "MarkI Eyeball" again. at least, it works for me.
Of course No.2 is easy and practical way, as you know. without RWR, you have a very few chanse to survive in this fierce battle.
and last thing remember, the word "SHIP SPOTTED" could be translated "Detecting Radar signals" in this manner, but more precisely, could be translated "YOU'RE BEING SPOTTED"
So, STAY ALERT! or you'll be dead man!
PS: this is my second post in this forum. thank you to GWX team and Subsim community, and please be patient my poor English.
Happy hunting and Happy Holiday!