Navy Warship Gets a Special Pass on the Rules of the Road
Published Date: 10/20/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. Navy has officially given the USS PATRICK GALLAGHER (DDG 127) a special pass because its unique design means it can’t fully follow the usual navigation light rules without messing up its mission. This change started on April 23, 2026, and mariners should be aware when sailing nearby. No extra costs are involved, but this keeps the ship safe and mission-ready while warning others on the water.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Navy ship exempt from standard navigation lights
The U.S. Navy issued a Certificate of Alternate Compliance for USS PATRICK GALLAGHER (DDG 127) that took effect on October 20, 2026 and applies beginning April 23, 2026. The certificate says the ship cannot fully meet specific International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 (72 COLREGS) lighting requirements (including Annex I paragraphs 3(a), 2(f)(i), 3(c), and 2(f)(ii)) without interfering with its special function, and the notice is intended to warn mariners in waters where the 72 COLREGS apply; no extra costs are involved.
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