Maritime security has attained significance for merchant vessels in the past decade, driven by increased threats from pirates around the globe. While the maritime industry experienced a decline in pirate activities, notably from Somali Pirates, in recent years, emerging threats are now reported in other regions. Current reports indicate a steady rise in piracy incidents, with the Gulf of Guinea being a popular hotspot, accounting for a substantial percentage of these occurrences.
The increasing threats of shipping piracy have led to substantial losses for shipping companies, compelling them to explore new strategies to counteract piracy. To address this challenge effectively, different security firms in the maritime surveillance market offer tailor-made maritime security services designed to combat modern piracy at sea. In response to these threats, several countries around the globe have implemented legislation and regulations allowing shipping companies to deploy armed guards on board vessels, improving protection against acts of piracy. Globally, maritime security firms are highly esteemed for their exceptional security solutions. Below is a compilation of such companies renowned for their maritime security services.
· Seagull Maritime Security: Seagull Maritime Security, headquartered in Malta, provides various maritime security and anti-piracy services, confirming the safe passage of vessels. Specializing in supporting commercial merchant ships navigating high-risk zones such as the Indian Ocean, Gulf of Aden, and Red Sea, Seagull Maritime safeguards both goods and seafarers. The security teams at Seagull Maritime Security consist of individuals with backgrounds in Naval Commando and elite special functions units, extensively trained and qualified to counter different threats at sea, with a specific emphasis on maritime piracy. The firm reports successful security services on different voyages, effectively countering pirate attacks on oil & gas vessels and container ships.
· Hudson Analytix: Hudson Analytix offers a comprehensive four-way marine security program catering to shipping companies, ports, commercial ships, and on-board security services. Within vessel and port security services, Hudson Analytix delivers a variety of components, including assessment, planning, training, security consulting, and training program services, confirming comprehensive security support for clients. The Hudson team secures different vessel types, including general cargo, bulk carriers, RO-RO containers, offshore vessels, FPSOs, and oil or chemical tankers. In addition, Hudson’s Cyber Park Risk Management provides tools and support for understanding and managing cyber risks. The organization holds universal accreditation as a Recognized Security Organization and operates across nearly 1,800 vessels and 300 ports across the globe.
· MUSC: MUSC, which stands for Maritime and Underwater Security Consultants, has been a key market player in giving maritime security services for the past 37 years. Specializing in anti-piracy security, port security, security assessment, and ship security for shipping companies, MUSC is licensed by the UK government to provide armed maritime security services, including onboard security teams, counter-piracy auditing, vessel hardening, and route planning and vessel analyzing. In addition, MUSC extends its expertise to subsea pipelines, confirming the effective disposal of explosive materials. The firm is actively involved in consultancy, support, and training to combat different threats, including weapons and drug smuggling, human trafficking, marine environment, and illegal immigration prevention for the industry.