Navy's official story seem to lead toward CREW ERROR...  

For those of us that have stood underway watches on the bridge of a navy ship, this YARN is pure misdirection at best and at it's worst, it throws the crew "Under the Bus." 

Why do I say that?

CONDITIONS  -  "Fair Skies and Following Seas" with 20 mile visibility
QUARTERMASTER  -  "At the Wheel" - highly qualified helmsman - his designated rating
LOOKOUTS  -  Both Port & Starboard, on the bridge and aft near the fantail
CIC - (Combat Information Central) - Radarman on scope, all contacts plotted
OFFICER OF THE DECK - Line Officer overseas watch - direct contact with Captain
NAVIGATOR - On bridge entering & leaving port
COM PHONE TALKER - All remote locations reports to Officer of the Deck

3 frigate COLLISIONS in 7th fleet (South China Sea) in 4 months?
Coincidence, right?  When hell freezes over...

"SOMETHING" took over command of the their bridges and engine rooms. Think - HACKING

Navy's not talking...