After several similar incidents previously occurred to other NATO vessels, it seems that force protection should have been adjusted to deal with this type of possible confrontation.
Australian vessels have had several tense incidents with Iranian gunboats in the area.It doesn't speak well for tactical planners that no one thought to have constant helicopter overwatch on all NATO boarding parties.
On December 6, 2004, crew from HMAS Adelaide were sent to check a cargo ship run aground at the mouth of the Shat al-Arab, but once the Australians boarded the vessel they were surrounded by six heavily armed Iranian gunboats.
Following a long and tense stand off, all members of the boarding party were winched into an Australian helicopter and to safety.
It's too late for Faye, but I bet they do now.
Technorati Tags: Iran, Faye Turney, hostage situation
