Armed Security on Cargo Ships: Necessity and Challenges Near Somalia

In the early 2000s, the waters off the coast of Somalia became a distressing hotbed for piracy. Areas such as the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean saw frequent attacks against shipping vessels. The incident in the film Captain Phillips serves as a compelling reminder of just how devastating these attacks can be. However, the question remains: why don’t cargo ship companies provide armed security to their vessels when navigating through perilous regions like Somalia?

The Legal Challenges of Armed Security

The primary issue with providing armed security on cargo ships is the legal challenge associated with weapon possession. Weapons on board a ship can be considered misdemeanors or felonies depending on the national waters or ports of call within the itinerary. Failing to abide by these regulations can result in substantial fines and even imprisonment.

For instance, a commercial fisherman with a "shark rifle," a veteran .303 Enfield, faced severe legal consequences when he transited from the lower 48 to Alaska via Canada. Despite his legality in one jurisdiction, he was fined heavily and almost served a jail sentence for not adhering to the regulations of the new territory.

A Historical Context of the Piracy Crisis

Twenty years ago, the threat of Somali pirates was so severe that any vessel within their range was at risk. Piracy in these waters was not only dangerous but also illegal. Ships were required to enter ports without weapons, and failing to do so would result in significant penalties. As a result, the travel in waters near Somalia became extremely perilous, and shipping companies were reluctant to transact in these regions.

The Transformation in Maritime Security

The situation began to change due to a critical shift in the attitude and capabilities of the shipping industry. With the enactment of new laws and the deployment of armed guards, cargo ships are now able to defend themselves against Somali pirates. This change has significantly curtailed piracy in the region. Ships that approach Somalia now have armed mercenaries on board, whose role is to deter pirates and ensure the safety of the vessel and its crew.

The Arsenal of Protecting Cargo Ships

The protection systems on board cargo ships are equipped with powerful weapons such as Barrett semi-automatic rifles, chambered in 50BMG. These weapons are loaded with Raufoss Mk 211 multi-purpose anti-materiel high-explosive incendiary/armor-piercing ammunition. The threat faced by small speedboats manned by pirates is minimal when faced with this weaponry, as they can incapacitate or destroy pirate crafts with a single round.

There are numerous videos and reports showcasing the efficacy of such weapons. For example, one video demonstrates the impact of 50BMG rounds on pirate boats, resulting in the pirates being either incapacitated or deceased. This dramatic display of force has proven to be an effective deterrent against pirate attacks, making the seas around Somalia safer for shipping.

The Challenges of Implementing Armed Security

Despite the clear benefits of arming cargo ships, the implementation of such security measures comes with significant challenges. The first issue is liability. Cargo ship companies, their insurers, and regulatory bodies must ensure that the addition of firearms does not lead to additional risks, such as accidental firing or misuse by security personnel.

Furthermore, different countries have varying rules and restrictions on bringing weapons into their territories. For instance, military vessels are exempt from such regulations through bilateral treaties, but civilian ships face stricter scrutiny. This can lead to additional complications and costs, such as customs clearance delays and prohibitive fines. These complications may outweigh the benefits of armed security in the short term, but in the long run, the increased insurance costs and transit times may make it worthwhile.

The Future of Maritime Security

The demand for armed security on cargo ships is likely to continue growing as long as the threat of piracy remains. While the implementation of such measures comes with legal and operational challenges, the protection of high-value assets and human lives is paramount. As technology advances, we may see more sophisticated and effective solutions being developed to ensure the safety of ships in piracy-prone areas.

However, it is crucial for the shipping industry to collaborate closely with governments, international organizations, and security firms to find sustainable and compliant solutions. The ultimate goal is to make the seas around Somalia and other piracy-prone regions safe for international trade, ensuring that the economic benefits of global commerce can continue uninterrupted.