Skiff hook assemblies breaking strength should be __________________ or greater than the breaking strength of the towline.

The breaking strength of skiff hook assemblies should be equal to or greater than the breaking strength of the towline. This principle is crucial for ensuring safety and reliability during towing operations.

If the skiff hook assemblies are just equal to the towline's breaking strength, they can handle the loads generated during towing under normal operating conditions. However, if they were less than the towline strength, there would be a risk of failure in the hook assemblies, which would compromise the entire towing operation and could lead to dangerous situations.

Having a skiff hook assembly that meets or exceeds the strength of the towline ensures that the system can handle unexpected loads or stresses that may occur during the towing process, thus promoting operational safety and efficiency.