It’s hard to believe that piracy is still a thing in 2021, but shipping expert Victor Restis says piracy is alive and thriving. So how does an industry as critical as shipping protect itself from pirates? Here are 12 ways they keep their ships and fleets safe:
1) By using armed guards
One of the most common ways shipping companies combats piracy is by using armed guards to protect their vessels. This can be an expensive solution, but it has proven effective in deterring pirates.
2) By using technology
Another popular way to combat piracy is through the use of technology. This can include using specially-designed buoys equipped with GPS to send alerts about the presence of pirates or installing acoustic homing alarms on ships’ hulls. These technological solutions can be deployed quickly and at a relatively low cost.
3) By sharing information
Ships need to know which areas are most dangerous, so they must share information. Crew members share intelligence via forums where anyone can post warnings about pirates in specific locations. Sharing information is often an effective way for shipping companies to combat piracy since it allows them to work together instead of working alone.
4) By partnering with local communities
Partnering with local communities is another popular solution because it brings down piracy rates while simultaneously making life better for the locals. This can be done by hiring locals to work onboard the ships, providing medical care and education, or helping to improve infrastructure in the local community.
5) By using private security firms
Shipping companies often employ private security firms to help protect their vessels from pirates. These firms have a variety of methods for dealing with pirates, including employing former military personnel, using armed guards, and using technology.
6) By using naval escorts
Naval escorts are often used as a deterrent against piracy. For example, when warships are deployed in an area plagued by pirates, it often scares them off and prevents them from attacking any vessels.
7) By using tracking devices
Tracking devices can be placed on ships to keep track of their location at all times. This can help shipping companies and authorities quickly locate a ship that pirates have hijacked.
8) By using intelligence networks
Intelligence networks are essential for tracking the movements of pirates. In addition, this information can help shipping companies plan their routes and avoid dangerous areas.
9) By using armed speedboats
Armed speedboats can be used to escort ships through pirate-infested waters. These boats are fast and well-armed, making them an ideal deterrent against pirate attacks.
10) By using deterrents
Deterrents are devices or measures that are used to scare pirates away. This can include installing barbed wire on the railing of a ship, using water cannons, or deploying patrol boats.
11) By partnering with militaries
Partnering with militaries is another way that the shipping industry combats piracy. This can be as simple as providing information about pirate activities to military authorities so they can stop them in their tracks.
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