"We can't just open fire like this in international waters!"
On the warship, the captain was already getting angry.
There were already problems with the operation itself: the warship was passing through Somali waters and carrying out its mission right along the edge of international waters. That alone could worsen relations with Somalia and the African countries.
Secondly, retaliation against pirates had to follow the principle of proportionality. In situations like this, they usually drove them off with water cannons instead of going straight to lethal weapons!
Maritime operations had to take international repercussions into account! Both actions were extremely dangerous, like dancing on a tightrope!
"We can."
Erik looked coldly at the captain. The captain's anger grew, and he immediately stood at attention. "This is my ship. This operation is only here to support the recovery of the cargo. I should have the final say on what kind of force we use!"
As he spoke, he strode toward the control console, intending to give the operator a harsh reprimand and shut down the weapons-
But the operator abruptly knocked his hand away!
The captain froze.
Thump, thump, thump.
He was about to lose his temper again when heavy footsteps sounded in the passageway.
Thump.
Four Iron Soldiers reached the edge of the deck, raised their weapons, and aimed at the control room as if saluting.
Then they braced their machine guns against the ship's rail and began slaughtering the approaching pirates.
The sight made the captain's blood run cold.
Partly because the slaughter was so shocking, and partly because something like this could easily cause trouble internationally. Whether he would still have a job as an officer afterward was anyone's guess.
"You're wrong." Erik looked at the captain. "I'm in charge of this mission. You're just responsible for the