For identification purposes at night, U.S. Navy submarines on the surface may display an intermittent flashing light of which color?

For identification purposes at night, U.S. Navy submarines on the surface may display an intermittent flashing light of which color?

• A. Amber (yellow)
• B. Red
• C. White
• D. Blue

Answer: (A)

Vessel identification signals at night include using a distinct light color and pattern to tell other mariners what kind of craft is nearby. For U.S. Navy submarines on the surface, that signal is an intermittent flashing amber light. Amber stands out from the standard navigation lights (red, green, and white) and a flashing pattern clearly indicates an identification signal rather than a regular navigation requirement. This helps other vessels recognize a military asset and respond with appropriate caution, reducing the chance of misidentification or collision. The other colors either serve different navigation or regulatory meanings, so amber flashing is the best fit for identifying a submarine at night.

Vessel identification signals at night include using a distinct light color and pattern to tell other mariners what kind of craft is nearby. For U.S. Navy submarines on the surface, that signal is an intermittent flashing amber light. Amber stands out from the standard navigation lights (red, green, and white) and a flashing pattern clearly indicates an identification signal rather than a regular navigation requirement. This helps other vessels recognize a military asset and respond with appropriate caution, reducing the chance of misidentification or collision. The other colors either serve different navigation or regulatory meanings, so amber flashing is the best fit for identifying a submarine at night.