Passive Protection Strategies

Vessel hardening strategies and equipment such as razor wire and overhang protection, if not already installed, will be considered, and recommended when suitable or practicable to reduce the risk to the vessel of a successful incursion. Depending on the vessel there may be recommendations for a strategic plan of fallback in the unlikely event of a vessel breach as well as the identification and preparation of a tiered secondary and tertiary defence strategy including citadel preparation and equipping. A vessel hardening plan is a mainstay of vessel security, particularly when operating in sea areas of high risk and is widely advocated.

Second-tier defences rely on the structure and fittings of individual vessels but can delay and impair the speed of incursion to permit the crew to access level three protection.

The identification and physical establishment of a tertiary defensive location, the strategy for a progressive ‘fall-back’ to a ‘citadel’ is an important stage in the defence and protection of the crew, officers, and security teams.

The fitting of smoke guns, strokes and other noise disorientation systems may further delay assailants’ progress if fitted and their control from the tertiary citadel will provide additional time.

The necessary protected communication equipment, food and water for the entire crew and security team together with access to tertiary equipment deployment if available can prevent an incursion from developing into a hostage and K&R position. It is recommended that the citadel should be habitable for three to five days.