Port of South LouisianaBühler GmbHCimbriaVan AalstTMS Awards 2023Vigan
  • Van Aalst
  • Port of Stockton
  • Vigan
  • Geneva Dry
  • Cimbria
  • Sailors Society

Martek calls for ISPS review to contemplate drone security threat

(Posted on 24/05/18)

Commercial shipping is waking up to the growing threat that drones pose to the safety and security of vessels. Terrorist use of drones deploying explosives is already well documented and the potential for a drone to deliver an explosive charge through the deck of an oil/gas tanker or on a passenger ship with potentially catastrophic results is a stark reality. Vessels in port, at anchor or on coastal transits are potential ‘sitting ducks’ and currently powerless to know if/when they’re going to be attacked, let alone be in a position to defend against the threat.

The ISPS code Part A para 1.3.3 mandates requirements, “preventing the introduction of unauthorised weapons, incendiary devices or explosive to ships” and Ship Security Plans need to address counter measures to protect from such threats. The problem is that, up until now, aerial threats from drones have just not been considered.

The ISPS code requirements for Ship Security Assessments (SSA) & Ship Security Plans (SSP) are specific and comprehensive regarding identification and countermeasures for all risks EXCEPT aerial risks! A ‘straw poll’ of company security officers and ship security officers from within Martek’s existing client base was alarming - most were totally oblivious to the emerging threat of drones nor had they even contemplated this threat in their periodic reviews of the SSA/SSP.

Martek feel this is a topic which merits serious consideration are writing to all maritime non-government organisations, classification societies and flag administrations to raise the issue and get their individual responses on the matter. Martek want to support the industry to ensure the mandatory objectives of ISPS “to detect security threats and take preventive measures against security incidents affecting ships or port facilities used in international trade” are fulfilled in its implementation.

Martek CEO Paul Luen commented, “ISPS needs an urgent update to address the growing threat that drones pose to safety & security of commercial shipping. It’s critical that awareness is urgently raised, and procedures updated to counter the growing threat before it’s too late.”

Martek Marine offers disruptive innovation to improve safety, welfare and performance on superyachts and commercial ships. Founded in 2000 the Martek Group is now a global business with 70+ staff in the UK and Singapore supplying services to more than 80 countries.

Latest News

Bruks Siwertell secures strategic ship loader order from Sky Logistics in Egypt

(Posted on 15/02/25)

Bruks Siwertell has secured a new order for a Siwertell ship loader from Sky Ports, Egypt, part of the... Read more


Konecranes Gottwald ESP.6 MHC operational in Duferco Terminal Mediterraneo

(Posted on 13/02/25)

Italian steel-logistics giant Duferco Terminal Mediterraneo S.p.A. (DTM) has started using a 125-tonne... Read more


WiseStella tool allows shipowners to better manage crew well-being challenges

(Posted on 13/02/25)

WiseStella, the Singapore-based maritime learning provider, has unveiled a pioneering crew wellbeing... Read more


Konecranes receives highest possible CDP leadership ranking

(Posted on 10/02/25)

Konecranes has received an A rating in the annual climate programme of the CDP, an improvement from... Read more


RAM announces the passing of Louis Du Plessis

(Posted on 07/02/25)

With great sadness, RAM Spreaders has announced the recent passing of their long-serving Technical Manager... Read more


WinGD on-engine NOx abatement solution to debut on bulkers

(Posted on 07/02/25)

The only on-engine NOx reduction solution for marine two-stroke engines, designed by Swiss marine power... Read more


Making sense of SAR

(Posted on 31/01/25)

Commander Matt Mitchell, a former USCG Officer, is determined to make sure all Search and Rescue authorities... Read more


New Bruks Siwertell ship loader contract for Long Beach

(Posted on 31/01/25)

Bruks Siwertell has won an order to deliver a new Bruks ship loader to the US Port of Long Beach, California... Read more


OceanScore: Data-driven decisions should define FuelEU compliance strategy

(Posted on 19/01/25)

Ship managers must navigate tricky commercial terrain to mitigate their financial exposure as DOC holder... Read more


Inmarsat and Maritime London establish SEA-CARE working group

(Posted on 10/01/25)

Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat company, supported by Maritime London, have established SEA-CARE as a new... Read more


TelestackGeneva DrySailors SocietyPort of StocktonTBA Group
  • Telestack
  • Port of South Louisiana
  • TMS Awards 2023

Subscribe to our newsletter

Keep up to date with the latest global news in bulk cargo handling and shipping