India and Greece recently held their inaugural Maritime Security Dialogue, enhancing cooperation in maritime security, trade, and defense. The discussions focused on addressing challenges like piracy and illegal fishing, emphasizing a coordinated approach to secure vital sea routes. Both nations expressed interest in joint exercises and technological collaboration for stronger maritime frameworks.
The Western Indian Ocean faces a maritime security threat costing approximately USD 1.14 billion annually, impacting 5.7% of its gross marine product. This was discussed at a recent UN-organized meeting in Mauritius, aiming to address maritime insecurity and develop sustainable funding strategies for the region’s Blue Economy.
CIMSEC is thrilled to present a two-week showcase of short stories inspired by maritime security and naval warfare. These narratives explore future conflicts and technological advancements at sea. Featuring diverse authors, this edition promises engaging themes and imaginative scenarios that invite readers to reflect on evolving maritime challenges.
The NATO Regional Centre, in partnership with the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative, has launched a specialized training course on “Joint Standardized Training in Contemporary Maritime Interdiction Operations.” This five-day program, led by Rear Admiral Pericles Pepis, features 22 trainees from Gulf Cooperation Council countries, focusing on enhancing maritime security skills.
At the Colombo Security Conclave, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval underscored the critical importance of maritime security, viewing the ocean as a vital part of India’s heritage. He called for collaborative efforts among nations to protect maritime routes against threats like piracy and terrorism, essential for regional peace and economic stability.
At the G7 meeting in Canada, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar presented a vision for maritime security, emphasizing the Indo-Pacific region’s importance. He advocated for port-led development and international cooperation, addressing challenges like piracy and illegal fishing. Jaishankar affirmed India’s commitment to a rules-based maritime order under UNCLOS.
France has officially joined the Jeddah Amendment to the Djibouti Code of Conduct, aimed at combating piracy and illegal maritime activities in the Western Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden. The signing, held at the IMO Headquarters, marks France as the 19th country to reinforce maritime security and cooperation efforts.
The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) has partnered with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) to enhance maritime operations. This collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding, aims to integrate space technology with maritime monitoring, improving traffic management and safety in UAE waters, especially during GITEX GLOBAL 2025.
Recent drone sightings over Denmark, as reported by Der Spiegel, signal a troubling trend, with similar reports from Kiel, Germany. These incursions have raised maritime security alarms, linked to Russian activities in the Baltic Sea. Regional leaders emphasize the urgent need for enhanced drone defenses to protect critical infrastructure and public safety.
Defending against GPS jamming and spoofing is costly and challenging, despite available “anti-jam” technologies. As cargo ships increasingly rely on sensors for emissions monitoring, they become vulnerable to cyber threats. In response, the maritime industry is enhancing cybersecurity measures, prompted by new regulations from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2021.
During his meeting with Mauritian Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significance of a free and secure Indian Ocean. He launched a $680 million development package to strengthen bilateral ties, highlighting shared cultural heritage and cooperation in health, infrastructure, and clean energy initiatives.
Vanguard Tech has launched the ‘Digital CSO,’ a revolutionary solution designed for Company Security Officers to tackle maritime risks in the Southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This AI-driven platform enhances visibility, decision-making, and protection, ensuring safe transit through high-risk areas while promoting compliance and operational resilience amidst rising global maritime disruptions.
The US Coast Guard has joined Operation Ika Moana, a maritime surveillance initiative led by Samoan police alongside the Pacific Sea Safety Program. This collaborative effort involved multiple nations, including Tuvalu, Tonga, and Fiji, emphasizing the significance of international partnerships in enhancing maritime security across the Pacific region.
The Plate Cutting Ceremony for the fourth Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (NGOPV) was held at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd in Mumbai. These 117-meter vessels, capable of 23 knots, enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s maritime security with advanced technologies, aligning with India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision for self-reliance in defense.
Progress is underway to operationalize the National Maritime Information Sharing Centre (NMISC) in Tanzania, enhancing maritime security. A recent workshop in Dar Es Salaam gathered national agencies and IMO experts to develop a roadmap, emphasizing cooperation under the Djibouti Code of Conduct and strengthening regional maritime safety in the Western Indian Ocean.
