A Japanese whaler sent a Mayday about two weeks ago after a similar, non-lethal situation like the above [they were provided supplies after being rammed]. Upon hearing it, I imagined kids policing themselves on the schoolyard; it doesn't work well for long.

How long before the Japanese harpoon the SSCS ships I wonder? Wouldn't it be just as effective and less instigating to create a noise that chases whales away? Just as much effort/fuel/people without the violent encounters. I'm confused about how sinking unmanned private property is okay - doesn't that create an ecological mess after rust and leaked oil?