What does DRIFT measure in maritime operations?

DRIFT in maritime operations specifically refers to the distance a vessel is pushed off its intended course due to external forces such as wind, current, or waves. This concept is crucial for navigators, as it affects the vessel's actual position relative to its intended track and can have significant implications for safe navigation.

Understanding DRIFT helps mariners make necessary adjustments to their course and speed to compensate for the forces acting on the vessel. This is particularly important in conditions where strong currents or winds are present, as any miscalculation can lead to significant deviations from the desired path.

While other options refer to aspects of navigation and vessel handling, they do not capture the specific concept of DRIFT, which is fundamentally linked to the external influences that alter a vessel's course.