This year has brought numerous new conflicts at sea, from Somali pirates to attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea. These events show how important it is that security professionals in 2024 are prepared to help their clients navigate maritime emergencies, whatever they are.
A crucial enabler of any security strategy is technology. Staying abreast of the latest devices and software and understanding how to choose the right ones can be challenging. That is why technology integrators play a pivotal role in enhancing maritime security efforts.
This article outlines key strategies and solutions that technology integrators need to consider to stay ahead of emerging threats and be an effective consultant for their clients.
Maritime Security Situation in 2024
The rapidly increasing number of maritime threats prompted the need for coordinated international security efforts. On December 18, 2023, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III established Operation Prosperity Guardian, an international task force aimed at protecting commercial vessels navigating the Red Sea. The Maritime Security Centre Horn of Africa (MSCHoA) and the World Sailing International Regulations Commission have also recently issued guidance for private yachts to avoid high-risk areas.
At the same time, the recent redirecting of International naval forces north into the Red Sea caused international concerns. These forces were initially sent to patrol the Gulf of Aden and now left these waters unattended land, vulnerable to attacks from Somali pirates and Houthi militants.
These and other events continuously changing the landscape of maritime security highlight the importance of a technology-driven strategy that won’t only safeguard the people on board but will allow quick pivots in case of new unexpected situations at sea.
Maritime Security Solutions to Consider
There are thousands of new cutting-edge solutions that all promise to “shift the paradigm”. While many of them are worthy of your and your clients’ time and money, my advice is to implement it in moderation.
New technology may seem exciting, but it can also create a security vulnerability if not vetted and tested properly. It’s also essential to remember that new technology will require rigorous training for security teams to be comfortable and confident around this tech in emergency situations.
I’ll cover a few essential systems and some emerging tech that I think is worthwhile.
Cybersecurity
One key word that is on the minds of professionals across many industries in 2024 is “cybersecurity.” With maritime vessels having automated navigation and other systems, protecting them from outsiders is crucial. Implementing a solid cybersecurity protocol and monitoring solutions is a must in keeping everyone safe and ensuring data and infrastructure are intact.
Surveillance Systems
Radar and satellite technologies are proven allies when it comes to maritime security. They can detect and track vessels that are miles away and provide a real-time comprehensive picture of maritime and air traffic that might intersect with a vessel’s passage. Thermal Imaging Radar is optimal in providing effective 24-hour radar coverage.
In the realm of night vision, consideration should also be given to gyro-stabilized High Definition Long Range (HDLR) cameras to assist in the verification of targets identified by radar and satellite. The most capable HDLR cameras can see targets up to 25 km away.
The utility of HDLR cameras can be further enhanced by the integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles that enhance the versatility of verification efforts.
Handheld HDLR cameras assigned to tender crews can further extend and refine the mothership’s surveillance capabilities, particularly if their video stream is shared via a Mesh Network.
If your suite of surveillance technologies is combined with advanced data analytics tools, they can trace and even predict potential threats, improving accuracy of the overall surveillance system.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
UAVs—or drones—are low-cost and effective tools for maritime surveillance. They can provide real-time aerial footage of vessels in the surrounding waters, allowing for the verification of potential threats identified by radar or satellites.
UAVs can be deployed swiftly to investigate suspicious activities, conduct research and rescue operations, and monitor hard to reach areas. Their ability to cover large distances while maintaining a low profile makes them an invaluable asset in maritime security.
Some UAVs using AI technology are also capable of accurately distinguishing between different objects, which is crucial when verifying threats.
Seamless Control
Effective security strategy requires seamless collaboration between all the security systems on board. Integrated control systems provide centralized monitoring and management of various security components, including surveillance cameras, access control systems and alarm systems.
This integration allows security personnel to have a unified view of the vessel’s security status, facilitating faster response times to potential threats.
Virtual Reality Training
Virtual Reality (VR) isn’t just an entertaining gaming experience but can also be an excellent tool when training the crew and security team to intercept and prevent attacks. VR allows to recreate realistic situations and train in life-like conditions.
While it’s impossible to be ready for everything, VR training is a great way to improve readiness for executing standard operational procedures and emergency responses.
Everything in Maritime Security, Everywhere, All at Once
Maritime security in 2024 is multifaceted and requires advanced technology, well-thought-out plans, a professional team and international partners. Nevertheless, a big part of it is anticipating situations that may go beyond what was expected.
This is where cutting-edge technological solutions and specialists who know the ins and outs of how to combine these solutions to form a seamless and complete security system are especially helpful.
Staying informed on the latest advancements and appreciating the intricate nature of maritime security will allow technology integrators to help crews and passengers stay safe when they are at sea.
Chris Moore is the vice president, risk consulting, at Concentric Advisors.
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