Which method is commonly used to assess the extent of hull damage underwater?

The method commonly used to assess the extent of hull damage underwater is underwater inspection with divers or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). This approach allows for a direct and detailed examination of the hull and surrounding areas that may not be accessible through other means. Divers can visually inspect the damage, take measurements, and even perform repairs if necessary. ROVs provide additional advantages, such as being able to operate in deeper waters or hazardous conditions where human divers may not safely enter.

While other methods such as sonar and imaging technologies can provide valuable information about hull integrity, they may not offer the same level of detail and direct interaction as an actual inspection. Visual assessments from the deck provide a limited perspective and might miss critical damage that can only be detected up close. Pressure tests are useful for detecting leaks or integrity issues but do not directly assess the physical state of the hull underwater. Thus, the hands-on evaluation through divers or ROVs remains the most effective method for accurately assessing underwater hull damage.