u/EminenceGris3

I’ve never seen anything like this before. Mast on a tripod base, huge sugar scoop, unique styling. Any ideas?

Let’s be careful out there. Does anyone have first-hand information?

MoD investigating reports Russian warship fired warning shots near yacht in Channel

Edit: More details have emerged. The Russians claim that they tried to contact the yacht, Bright Future on VHF and fired flares. They claim the vessel approached to within 150m when they fired the warning shots.

An interview with the couple on the yacht directly counters this. They say that conditions were clear, and there was a stationary vessel in the distance that was not broadcasting position on AIS. They were set to pass by at a distance over 500m or more. As they approached they could see that it was a warship but could not see a national flag on the stern. The vessel gave five blasts on the horn so they adjust course 2 degrees to port. Shortly afterwards they received a further five blasts immediately followed by small arms fire, possibly into the air. There were no VHF radio communications from the vessel.

My view is that the couple are very likely telling the truth. The two degrees course adjustment is absurdly small and they should’ve made a very clear course change for the avoidance of all doubt, but this seems to be their only mistake. They were broadcasting on AIS and the Russian vessel would’ve been well aware of their status, course, and speed. All a bit embarrassing if you’re the commander of a frigate and you’re afraid of a Bavaria 39 doing 5 knots!