The recent report on the sinking of the OUZO prompted an investigation into the effectiveness of radar reflectors, which makes disturbing reading. Follow this link to see the report and recommendations http://www.maib.gov.uk/cms_resources/Radar%20reflectors%20report.pdf
I have drawn the following conclusions from this report and that of the MAIB:
Radar reflectors perform badly when the boat is heeled and in rough water, beacause of "sea clutter".
Carrying AIS is not the answer, because commercial ships do not have to display AIS data on the radar screen.
Just because a ship alters course and appears to be giving way to you does not necessarily mean that you have been seen. (see MAIB report).
Gradual alterations of course can confuse observers on other vessels.
Having equipment which identifies a ship's AIS (including name, call sign and MMSI)might be of help, because a VHF call to the bridge is more likely to be answered.
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