Quote:
Originally Posted by Bothersome
But like I said, if I had to use your method in that example given, I'd never be able to overtake the target at step 11.2 to get set up for the shot.
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Remember that in 11.2, you are NOT overtaking the target. It is still somewhere along the third bearing line or well behind you (bearing 220ish in the PDF when the sub is moving to new position). But still, surface and run at flank speed. you can do 15 or more knots even in rough seas.
Keep in mind that when you take your third bearing and have the targets heading, it is still usually a LONG way off (12+ km). (unless it happens to be coming straight at you, but you'll know that by then as the bearing does not change). You can surface well out of sight and have
plenty of time to flank speed (or not) and plot an intercept that will easily put you well ahead of them.
At 10 knots the ship will cover approx 9 km in 30 min. provided it is even coming slightly towards you - you can still plot an intercept course that is significantly shorter than his course... even if you were running at his speed.
And yes, I agree your method will work and usually get you close enough provided ok visibility. And thats great if its easier. It is the way I was using my hydrophones before. But once, I tried to track a ship in the dark rain with <250m visibility... Ugh! I tracked him forever! stopped and took 15+ hydrophone bearings... my map looked like a geometry exam that I once flunked. Kept crossing back and forth near him w/out seeing him. Chased his arse all night! Finally came directly from behind him (after his bearing didn't change any more
) and had to be RIGHT on top of him before I saw him. Finished him off with the deck guns and then promptly came to the forum (thanks Kylania) to ask how to plot a course with just hydrophone
But really, it's not that hard once you figure it out and then with a few lines and circles, you can get their course and speed... Then set up for a great shot - and still have time to get a cup of coffee while you wait for them to come into the shooting gallery
Either way, everyone can track how they find best - as long as the merchant ship is sent to Davy Jones Locker, who can argue?
