That I couldn't tell you, but since I've been fooling with the SH4 mission editor I found that by default every new ship I place is classed as "Veteran", with the choices being Elite, Veteran, Competent, Novice, and Poor. "Veteran" apparently means psychic, making a beeline for you from far beyond any reasonable detection range. In other words the AI cheats so I'd hate to see an Elite crew.
I too was in ASW, an AX in a heavy helicopter antisubmarine squadron, so I totally agree with your gripe here.