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
ESL Shipping to build series of fossil-free handysize vessels
(Posted on 14/10/24)ESL Shipping, the leading carrier of dry bulk cargoes in the Baltic region, is building a series of... Read more
OrbitMI focuses on data quality to fuel efficiency and sustainability
(Posted on 08/10/24)New York-based software-as-a-service company OrbitMI is prioritising data integrity with its Orbit vessel... Read more
80 years of innovation and growth celebrated at Martin Engineering
(Posted on 01/10/24)A world leader in bulk handling solutions, Martin Engineering, is marking 80 years of product innovation... Read more
OTG unlocks data insights with the launch of new dashboards
(Posted on 01/10/24)Ocean Technologies Group (OTG), the global leader in maritime human capital management solutions and... Read more
DNV approval for Hanwha Ocean's rotor sail technology
(Posted on 25/09/24)DNV has awarded Hanwha Ocean Type Approval Design Certification (TADC) for its innovative rotor sail... Read more
Alfa Laval secures major order for BWMS replacements
(Posted on 19/09/24)Alfa Laval has received an order to replace 18 ballast water treatment systems (BWMS) onboard vessels... Read more
Maritime industry faces growing pressure for data transparency
(Posted on 19/09/24)Charterers and insurers are demanding more transparency in vessel operations, yet many maritime companies... Read more
OLG announces partnership with maritime superapp platform FrontM
(Posted on 19/09/24)Digital training specialists OneLearn Global (OLG) has announced a new partnership with FrontM in a... Read more
New Fuel Insights platform reduces bunker quality risk
(Posted on 12/09/24)NorthStandard has launched ‘Fuel Insights’ - an exclusive real-time marine fuel intelligence... Read more
Kaiko Systems unveils KAI, a comprehensive maritime AI agent
(Posted on 12/09/24)Kaiko Systems is set to revolutionise vessel health management and operations with the launch of KAI... Read more
