Which method would best be used for measuring combat readiness of naval ships?

The best method for measuring the combat readiness of naval ships is conducting drills. Drills are critical as they simulate real-life combat scenarios and allow the crew to practice their responses to various situations, such as collision avoidance, damage control, and crisis management. By engaging in these exercises, the crew can hone their skills, improve communication, and ensure that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in stressful situations.

Through these drills, commanders can assess not only the effectiveness of the ship's systems and equipment but also the crew's ability to operate them seamlessly under pressure. This practical approach provides valuable insights into overall preparedness and highlights areas needing improvement, ensuring that the ship is ready for any potential combat situation.

In contrast, while assessing crew comfort, evaluating cargo capacity, and calculating navigation times may provide important information about a ship’s operational capabilities or efficiency, these factors do not directly measure combat readiness, which fundamentally relies on the crew's training and response abilities in conflict scenarios.