Okay, I read the report - and - the only worthwhile part of it is the recommendation/discussion section item #12.
- - Passive methods of being seen or detected all have the same false assumptions: 1- Other other guy has his radar turned on; 2- The other guy knows how to tune and use a radar; 3- The other guy is looking at the radar; and finally 4- the seas are flat with less than 1 meter waves/swells. In the real world it is almost certain that the vast majority of "other" vessels have anywhere from 1 to all 4 factors operating which means you will not be seen. The biggest one is #4 where out in the oceans anything smaller than a freighter will be
lost in the "sea clutter" in seas over 1 meter.
- - Active procedures are more valuable in "protecting your butt." Your own radar and knowing how to use it is number one. Systems like the C.A.R.D. are relatively
cheap and will alert you if any radars are operating around you which normally means big ships. AIS is good for pointing out 1st world
shipping but is worthless on small or 3rd world
shipping that never enters a 1st world port. Lastly, a strong/powerful
lighting system like a masthead strobe to "wake up" the other ship and along with
VHF communications let them know you are out there.
- - Passive techniques do not
work on the highways and byways and neither do they work on the oceans. Think "defensive sailing" and be pro-active in protecting your boat and butt.