What degree should be tested for positive rudder control during RMD conditions?

Testing for positive rudder control during Reduced Maneuvering (RMD) conditions is crucial in ensuring the vessel's safety and maneuverability when operating under restricted or challenging circumstances. A rudder test at 2 degrees is optimal because it allows for a sufficient range of control without overextending the rudder's effectiveness.

At this degree of deflection, operators can observe the vessel's response to minimal rudder input, which is essential for maintaining control and making necessary adjustments while minimizing the risk of over-correction or loss of control. This degree of testing is also in line with training and guidelines that emphasize the importance of fine control in environments where precision is critical due to factors such as currents, wind, and proximity to other vessels or obstacles.

Higher degrees of rudder testing may lead to a more significant and potentially distracting response, which is not ideal for determining the effective and manageable control necessary in RMD situations. Thus, testing at 2 degrees strikes a balance between sensitivity and control, making it the recommended choice for this specific evaluation.