In response to escalating security concerns in the Southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, key maritime organisations have collaborated to issue updated safety protocols for vessels traversing these waters.
The guidance was jointly developed by BIMCO, ICS, INTERCARGO, INTERTANKO, and OCIMF. It provides detailed recommendations for ship operators and masters on enhancing security measures and responding to potential threats in the region.
This initiative aims to bolster maritime security in a region known for its strategic importance and potential risks. The recommendations cover a wide range of scenarios, from initial voyage planning to real-time threat responses and post-incident management.
The advice also includes mention of threats to ships transiting in the region, which have been identified as follows:
- Houthi forces masquerading as Yemeni Coast Guard or navy officials and attempting to coerce merchant ships to sail to Yemeni ports.
- Anti-ship cruise missiles. These missiles have sophisticated terminal guidance, typically using radar and/or electro-optics.
- Anti-ship ballistic missiles. These missiles typically aim at a geographical coordinate or have only basic, unreliable terminal guidance.
- Water-borne improvised explosive devices (WBIED), also known as Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV). Typically, skiffs are occasionally mounted with dummies, fitted with an impact fuse and laden with explosives.
- Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAVs, or drones) are occasionally used.
- Crewed skiffs using RPGs and small arms.
- Uncrewed undersea vehicles have been reported, but no vessel has been attacked using these.
- Mines are near entrances to Houthi-controlled ports, and on rare occasions, mines have become detached from their tether and have drifted into the traffic lanes.
- Houthi hijack/kidnap teams in skiffs.
- Houthi hijack/kidnap teams in helicopters. Although the possibility of an airborne attack from helicopters during darkness exists, it is more significant during daylight hours.
The emphasis in these guidelines is on thorough preparation and constant vigilance. Shipowners and operators are advised to conduct detailed risk assessments before embarking on voyages through the area. Once underway, crews are instructed to maintain a high level of alertness and follow specific procedures tailored to various threat levels.
The guidance provides step-by-step instructions for different situations, including how to react when encountering suspicious vessels and what actions to take if an attack occurs. It also outlines essential post-incident procedures, ensuring crews are prepared for all eventualities.
By providing this updated framework, the maritime industry aims to enhance the safety and security of vessels operating in this challenging environment, ultimately safeguarding crew members, cargo, and maritime trade in the region.