In truth, the Americans would deploy some naval vessels of their own to keep an eye on things were any foreign navy to hang around its 12 mile limit. I think 20 miles would be wiser and foolish not to do because with warships the way they are and air response time from US shores, it makes a difference of two minutes, tops, and it could certainly help clear up these little misunderstanding when we know damned well the parties involved know where each other is to within a square meter or two.

Good tactics are good tactics regardless whose armed forces are involved. The key remains--as it always has--in intelligence operations and the results of the organizations' informed interpretation of what's been found out. A thing that has been a thorn to the US and most allied powers is on-the-ground information because without that the 'feeling' of the general populace--and that has major strategic importance--is not entered into the equation and then stupid-shit begins to happen.

Military involvement that includes hot warfare is anachronistic. And if all the rest isn't directed toward that end, then wtf are we all getting involved in this 'stuff' for. Read Majo General Smedly Butler's take on it. Here's a link to War is a Racket.

If you haven't read that, please do so. Little has changed since one of the more highly decorated US Marines in US history wrote it. And gi'e yer haid a skack if you think any countries are doing this shit for altruistic purposes or reasons.

Pardon me for saying, but folks have to talk with each other instead of argue and bitch. Staying on topic is a good start.