Maritime security services are essential for ensuring the safety and security of shipping operations, ports, and waterfront facilities.
These services address the unique challenges faced by maritime operations, including piracy, smuggling, terrorism, and environmental hazards. Here’s an overview of what maritime security services typically involve:
Key Aspects of Maritime Security Services
1. Vessel Protection: This includes the security of ships both in transit and when docked. Services range from armed escorts and anti-piracy measures to the installation of security technologies like CCTV, alarms, and tracking systems.
2. Port Security: Enhancing the security of ports involves access control systems, perimeter security, underwater surveillance, and regular security audits to prevent unauthorized access and ensure compliance with international regulations such as the ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code.
3. **Cargo Security**: Ensuring the integrity of cargo from loading to unloading. This involves sealing containers, using tamper-evident technologies, and deploying X-ray scanners and other devices to detect contraband or hazardous materials.
4. Crew Training: Providing training for crew members on security practices, emergency response, and the use of defensive equipment. Regular drills and training sessions help crews prepare for potential security threats.
5. Maritime Surveillance and Patrolling: Using maritime patrol aircraft, drones, and naval vessels to monitor territorial waters. This helps in identifying and intercepting potential threats before they reach coastal areas or interfere with shipping routes.
6. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Assisting clients in navigating the complex web of national and international maritime laws, including anti-piracy laws, environmental regulations, and labor standards.
7. Risk Assessment and Crisis Management: Conducting detailed risk assessments and developing crisis management plans that can be activated in the event of a security incident. This includes establishing protocols for hijacking, piracy, and environmental disasters.
Importance of Maritime Security Services
- Preventing Illegal Activities: Robust maritime security prevents piracy, smuggling, and trafficking, ensuring safe passage for ships and their cargoes.
- Safeguarding Economic Interests: The maritime industry is vital for global trade. Protecting shipping lanes and ports is crucial for maintaining economic stability and ensuring smooth operations.
- Enhancing Safety: Effective maritime security protects not just assets but also the lives of crew members and other personnel involved in maritime operations.
- Environmental Protection: Security measures help prevent incidents that could lead to environmental disasters, such as oil spills or the illegal dumping of hazardous materials.
Challenges in Maritime Security
- Geopolitical Tensions: Navigating the complex geopolitical landscapes, especially in contested waters, requires sophisticated strategies and international cooperation.
- Technological Adaptation: As threats evolve, so must security measures. Incorporating the latest technologies and staying ahead of potential cyber threats are ongoing challenges.
- Coordination Across Jurisdictions: Effective maritime security often involves coordination between multiple countries and agencies, which can be complicated by differing laws, capabilities, and priorities.
Maritime security services play a crucial role in the global economy by ensuring the safe and secure movement of goods and people across the world’s oceans.
Their importance cannot be overstated, given the potential threats in the maritime domain and the global dependency on maritime routes for trade and commerce.
Maritime Security Services in the Indian Ocean
Our group, in collaboration with reputable Private Maritime Security Companies (PMSCs), provides confidential, precise, and effective maritime security solutions in the Indian Ocean, Gulf of Aden, and Arabian Sea.
Our services are comprehensive and cater to various security needs.
Our Services Include:
- Vessel Protection: Armed and/or unarmed protection as required.
- Security Assessment & Consulting: Thorough vessel security assessments and expert consulting.
- Legal Consulting: Expert legal advice pertaining to maritime security.
- Incident & Emergency Management: 24-hour global vessel tracking and emergency response services.
- Crew Security Training: Comprehensive training programs for crew security.
- Diverse Vessel Security Services: Security services for all types of vessels, including fishing ships, yachts (mega/super yachts), and cruising vessels.
Navigating the Perilous Waters of Yemen and the Red Sea
The waters off the coast of Yemen and the Red Sea have become increasingly perilous for vessels navigating these routes.
The escalation of regional conflicts and the rise of terrorist activities have significantly heightened the risks faced by merchant ships, fishing vessels, and even luxury yachts.
Maritime Security Services in Nigerian Waters
The increasing risks in Nigeria and Benin necessitate heightened security measures for the merchant fleet.
Our services in these regions are in full compliance with new laws and regulations enforced by Flag States and Governmental bodies, including the Nigerian Government and Navy.
Our Services Include:
- Armed Escorts: Provision of armed escorts throughout the Nigerian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), extending up to 200 nautical miles from shore, in partnership with Nigerian Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) holding parties.
- Port Security: Regular armed escort services for vessels calling at Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Onne.
- Regional Security: Authorized onboard armed security teams in Ghana, Togo, and Benin, with permissions for anchorage and port stays. These services are delivered through our network of local government-authorized partners.
The Threat of Nigerian Piracy
Nigerian piracy in the Gulf of Guinea remains a significant threat to merchant shipping. This region is among the most perilous waters globally, with armed and dangerous pirate gangs from the Niger Delta responsible for numerous attacks. Our robust security measures and partnerships aim to mitigate these risks and ensure the safety of vessels and their crews.
OPS Center
At ouc company, the Operations Center (OPS Center) serves as the nerve center for monitoring all incoming emails and phone calls, delivering timely reports and intelligence updates related to piracy activities.
Our analysis integrates intelligence products from renowned agencies, including the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), Maritime Security Centre Horn of Africa (MSCHOA), NATO Shipping Centre (NSC), and the US Navy Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI).
Our advanced OPS software enables live tracking of vessel positions through satellite connections, providing up-to-the-minute alerts on piracy incidents and weather conditions.
This crucial information is directly relayed to our operations staff and security teams on transit, ensuring real-time communication and response capabilities.
W are committed to keeping global shipping secure by offering comprehensive risk management strategies and physical maritime security.
Through our strategic partnerships and extensive expertise in anti-piracy and anti-terrorism sectors, we provide a full spectrum of services tailored for both commercial and private vessels navigating high-risk areas.
Our daily focus is to equip our clients with the advice, equipment, and service that not only meet their specific needs but also fully comply with all relevant regulations.
Our operations are designed to address both regulatory requirements and clients' perceived needs.
As the designated transit coordinators and OPS Center for various Maritime Security Companies, we offer flexibility, accuracy, and professionalism. We ensure rapid deployment of ready-to-serve maritime security (MARSEC) teams, guaranteeing the safety of your property and crew at all times.
PRIMARY EMERGENCY CONTACT
UKMTO
(United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations)
E: ukmto@eim.ae
T: +971 50 552 3215
SECONDARY CONTACTS
MSC-HOA
(Maritime Security Centre Horn of Africa)
E: postmaster@mschoa.org
T: +44 1923 958545 | F: +44 1923 958520
www.mschoa.org
NATO Shipping Centre
E: info@shipping.nato.int
T: +44 1923 956 574 | F:+44 1923 956 575
www.shipping.nato.int
MARLO
(Maritime Liaison Office Bahrain)
E: marlo.bahrain@me.navy.mil
T: +973 1785 3925 | Cellular: +973 3940 1395
www.cusnc.navy.mil/marlo/
IMB Piracy Reporting Centre
T: +603 2031 0014 | F: +603 2078 5769 | Telex: MA34 199 IMBPC1
E: piracy@icc-ccs.org
www.icc-ccs.org
MARSEC Standard Equipment
Rifles 7.62x51mm or 7.62X39mm w/ magazines
1000 x Ammunition per set (team of 3 or 4 personnel)
Plates carriers (or Tactical vests)
Ballistic plates NIJ IV
US PASGT Helmets level IIIA - 0101.06
Binoculars
Communication devices
Team Medical kits
Military cases (equipment/ammo/riffles)
Special tactical devices
Optional
Drones/VTOL UAV / Anti Drone Systems for special cases
Personnel experience
- Military experience
- Seaman’s book
- STCW95, all four levels
- SSO certificate
- Medical certificate
- Clean criminal records bureau (CRB) check
- Valid vaccinations
A chief Security Officer (CSO) and a legal advisor is available around the clock to support the operational teams and the maritime law matters
Our most valuable assets are our extensive knowledge, vast experience, and dedicated personnel.
Highly Trained Professionals
All our personnel are highly trained professionals, ensuring they are physically, medically, and mentally prepared to perform their duties efficiently.
Each team member has completed their Military Service and possesses all the necessary certifications required in the field of Maritime Security.
Distinguished Backgrounds
Our team members have served in the Hellenic Navy or Special Forces, where they have undertaken various missions as operators or Team Leaders, particularly in high-risk areas.
Their experience spans a wide range of tasks in hostile environments across the security industry, both on land and at sea, in private sector engagements, and in military operations globally.
Comprehensive Security Solutions
We assist clients in mitigating exposure to threats and safeguarding employees and assets.
Our services include identifying gaps in existing physical security programs and recommending enhancements to facilities, policies, procedures, and technology to ensure robust and effective security measures.