I was in the military for two decades, and I spent a year aboard a sub. This isn't rust that is unexpected, this is a normal thing. The writer of the article has no idea.

I second the maintenance. Former sailor as well here. Salt water is horrid on steel, regardless of what it is made of (iron, cobalt, nickel, etc). If anything, the paint might be sub-par.

My [naval] paint experience is what gives me the most confidence in calling out coof masks as fraud... the organic vapor respirators we wore when working with them did their job; if you had a leak, you'd be dead on the ground before you even got to fresh air. Stupid cloth won't do a damn thing...

Yes I wasn't sure, that is why I listed as a question. Not even sure if the outside of the ship is all steel or different metals.

This quote applies to men and ships alike...

The sea is a harsh mistress.