Longevity of a Vessel

the ability of a vessel to with-stand the effect of the natural forces of wind and waves, fires, and enemy weaponry and the possibility when damaged of maintaining or completely or partially restoring its seaworthiness and combat characteristics.

The most important elements of a vessel’s longevity are its unsinkability and stability. Longevity is ensured by the rationality of the ship’s design and outfitting. This includes placement of watertight bulkheads, hatches, scuttles, doors, and portholes; signaling systems; automatic protective devices; fire-fighting and water-pumping equipment; and auxiliary power sources. Under emergency conditions the effectiveness of the struggle to save a vessel will depend to a great extent on the timeliness of the crew’s actions and on crew training.