Me too ! i started playing it just today and was wondering if it was intentional or something but apparently not (i didn't even know it was the ship's rank); and the turret emplacements for capital ships flash their number just above them by the same interval.

Also, i can't read your link, steam gives me an error page.

Edit : ok i feel a bit stupid, it's an option in the ui, last bottom button in the left menu. There, solved.

I never thanked you for finding the solution! So thank you

Haha no problem man, it's what the internet is for ! And thank you for going back months after to say a nice thing ;)

You're welcome! :D
Besides, your answer made my day better, internet really needs some more kindness.
Have a nice day mate!