THE US Coast Guard has issued a revised maritime security directive “in response to the rise in piracy in the waters of the Gulf of Aden and the Horn of Africa and in light of recent pirate attacks on US flagged vessels”.
A USCG statement says that Maritime Security Directive 104-6 (rev. 2) issued under the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2004 provides the maritime industry with specific, risk-based measures to take to deter, detect or disrupt piracy. Prior to entering high risk waters, US flagged vessels should establish an anti-piracy plan that includes the “hardening of rigging and operating vessels in a manner to prevent attacks and subsequent boarding”. Ships shall also use established transit lanes, erratic ships manoeuvring, increased speed and cooperation with military forces patrolling the area. During transits through high-risk areas, it is the ship’s responsibility to maintain a vigilant anti-piracy watch and ensure all shipboard anti-piracy precautions are in force.
The measures are mandatory for US vessels. Vessel security plans for US flagged vessels that operate in high risk waters must have security protocols for terrorism, piracy, and armed robbery against ships that meet the performance standards in this directive by May 25. An annex to the directive provides further specific measures required for vessels transiting in the Horn of Africa and Gulf of Aden high risk waters. All vessel security plans must be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
"Piracy presents a multi-faceted threat to the United States, our international partners and the maritime industry and the seafarers who make their living on the global maritime transportation system," said Rear Adm Brian Salerno, assistant commandant for marine safety, security and stewardship. "The Coast Guard has a unique role to play in response to this threat and we remain committed to working with our governmental, defence and industry partners to bring pirates to justice and to help provide for the safety of mariners upon the high seas."