Maritime Security Research Articles

Political realism in the EEZ: The differences between Greece and Turkiye as an issue of maritime security

Political realism in the EEZ: The differences between Greece and Turkiye as an issue of maritime security

Effective law enforcement in gray zone operations: A Chinese perspective of coastguard law implementation in delimited maritime zones

The states attempt to claim more areas in maritime zones to control the oceans and their resources effectively. This position has led many states into disputes and conflicts in the maritime zones, and such unsettled zones are known as 'gray zones'. The 'gray zones' of the East China Sea and South China Sea (together East and South China Seas) challenge the effective enforcement of the law because of the ambiguity in the law of the sea and its interpretation by international courts and tribunals. In the East and South China Seas, law enforcement in gray zones has raised many concerns about maritime security, illegal fishing, terrorism, and piracy. The conflict among the states neighboring the East and South China Seas hinders the effective enforcement of the law. Against this backdrop, this research paper suggests that insensitive forces such as the coastguard of states in dispute shall cooperate for effective law enforcement in gray zones. This paper argues that if enforcement actions are legitimate with lawful grounds and reasonable measures, such cooperation will not escalate disputes among states. In the East and South China Seas, the cooperation for effective law enforcement by coastguards will depend on the continuous overcoming of uncertainties in international law until the conflicting states reach a consensus on the competitive interpretation of law by the international courts and tribunals.

Decoding dependencies among the risk factors influencing maritime cybersecurity: Lessons learned from historical incidents in the past two decades

The distinctive features of maritime infrastructures present significant challenges in terms of security. Disruptions to the normal functioning of any part of maritime transportation can have wide-ranging consequences at both national and international levels, making it an attractive target for malicious attacks. Within this context, the integration of digitalization and technological advancements in seaports, vessels and other maritime elements exposes them to cyber threats. In response to this critical challenge, this paper aims to formulate a novel cybersecurity risk analysis method for ensuring maritime security. This approach is based on a data-driven Bayesian network, utilizing recorded cyber incidents spanning the past two decades. The findings contribute to the identification of highly significant contributing factors, a meticulous examination of their nature, the revelation of their interdependencies, and the estimation of their probabilities of occurrence. Rigorous validation of the developed model ensures its robustness for both diagnostic and prognostic purposes. The implications drawn from this study offer valuable insights for stakeholders and governmental bodies, enhancing their understanding of how to address cyber threats affecting the maritime industry. This knowledge aids in the implementation of necessary preventive measures.

Maritime Security Diplomacy Facing the Threat of Pollution and Environmental Damage to Realize Golden Indonesia 2045

Research analysis with qualitative methods that explain the relationship between the theory of maritime diplomacy and maritime security in the discussion. The correlation of Indonesian environmental law and international environmental law in the understanding between countries which is the basis for acting between countries so that there are safe limits and do not violate international or domestic Indonesian agreements. The discussion refers to the development of maritime diplomacy by analyzing the threat of pollution and environmental damage experienced by Indonesia. The results of research that takes environmental problems including pollution, wastewater that have occurred provide an overview of the threat of pollution and environmental damage that can arise from various sources, including pollution, climate change, deforestation, and unsustainable exploitation of natural resources.

Regional Collaboration Strategy to Overcome Geopolitical Threats in the ASEAN Maritime Region

The ASEAN maritime region is a strategic area that faces various geopolitical threats, such as piracy, smuggling and territorial disputes. Overcoming this threat requires effective regional collaboration among ASEAN member countries. This research aims to analyze regional collaboration strategies that can be implemented to improve maritime security in ASEAN. The research methods used include qualitative analysis of existing cooperation initiatives, evaluation of the effectiveness of collaboration mechanisms, as well as interviews with experts and stakeholders in the field of maritime security. The research results show that strengthening dialogue mechanisms, increasing the capacity of member countries, developing maritime infrastructure, and collaborating with external partners are key elements in the regional collaboration strategy.

Joint Ship Scheduling and Speed Optimization for Naval Escort Operations to Ensure Maritime Security

Joint Ship Scheduling and Speed Optimization for Naval Escort Operations to Ensure Maritime Security

Maritime Security and the Protection of Philippine Territorial Waters

The sea acts as an essential bridge linking the Pacific and Indian oceans, holding great significance due to its major role in trade and military routes connecting East Asia to Europe and the Middle East. Covering over 3 million square kilometers (1.16 million square miles) on the western edge of the Pacific, the South China Sea (also known as the West Philippine Sea) stands as a focal point. This research aims to assess the maritime security level in Malampaya, particularly in terms of human resources. It includes the installation of EDCA sites, Philippine Rise, and southern backdoor security. Through focused group discussions, the study concludes and outlines recommendations. It highlights the limited overall capability of the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) and PCG (Philippine Coast Guard) in defending against threats in maritime and air environments in the said area. Moreover, safeguarding the security of major areas such as the Camago Malampaya Petroleum Resource Area, Mindanao Southern backdoor and the Ayungin Shoal remains a challenge. Furthermore, a call for increased budget allocation to procure proper equipment and military hardware is emphasized. This investment aims to fortify deterrence against potential military intrusions, particularly from nations like China, thus safeguarding the Philippines’ sovereignty, maritime security, safety, and interests. It will also prevent future terrorist attacks, particularly in the southern Mindanao area and sea borders from our neighboring countries. Keywords: Maritime Security, Maritime Safety, Maritime Cooperation

Strategies For Addressing The Spillover Effect Of Mosaic Warfare In The South China Sea Conflict To Achieve National Security Stability

The South China Sea is a strategic area rich in natural resources and a crucial international shipping and trade route, making it a focal point of territorial disputes between China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. This conflict escalates tensions and the potential spillover effects of mosaic warfare that can impact Indonesia's national security and stability. This journal analyzes the strategic implications of the South China Sea conflict for Indonesia, exploring defensive and proactive strategies to mitigate risks and enhance national resilience. This research uses a qualitative descriptive approach based on historical analysis and content analysis, successfully identifying key areas of concern such as increased maritime security risks, the need for enhanced military capabilities, and the importance of regional and international cooperation. Proposed strategies include increased diplomatic engagement, strengthening defense capabilities, intelligence and security technology cooperation, and diversifying economic and trade routes. Indonesia must adopt a multifaceted and proactive strategy to protect its interests amidst regional instability, strengthen diplomatic relations within ASEAN and globally, enhance military and surveillance capabilities, and ensure economic resilience against potential disruptions in maritime trade routes. Public education and adherence to international law are also crucial for maintaining regional peace and security.

The Influence Of Employee Performance Competence On The Indonesian Coast Guard Ships

This research aims to determine (1) the influence of intellectual competence, emotional competence and social competence of employees on employee performance and, (2) the most dominant factors influencing employee performance on the State Ships of the Indonesian Maritime Security Agency or Indonesian Coast Guard (KN Bakamla RI) in 2023. There are the diverse competencies possessed by Bakamla employees who serve on the Republic of Indonesia's KN Bakamla cause less than optimal organizational performance so that an effort is needed to fill this gap. This research is mix method research, namely a combination of quantitative methods and qualitative methods. Data was collected using the methods (1) interviews, (2) documentation, and (3) questionnaires. Next, the data was processed and analyzed using multiple linear regression analysis, SPSS version 22 program and descriptive analysis. The results of the research show that employee competency influences employee performance at KN Bakamla RI, both partially and simultaneously. Partially, intellectual competence has a partial influence of 76.6% on performance, then emotional competence has a partial influence of 58.3% on performance, and social competence has a partial influence of 62.8% on performance. Simultaneously, intellectual competence, emotional competence, and social competence have a large influence on 62.3% of employee performance. There needs to be regular competency development so that employees can develop their competencies to further improve performance. This research was conducted in April-May 2024.

Addressing maritime security challenges through maritime domain awareness: a study of the role of the Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region

ABSTRACT In recent years, many non-traditional maritime safety and security threats viz. piracy, armed robberies at sea, maritime terrorism, human trafficking, drugs trafficking, illicit trafficking in wildlife, illegal deals in weapons, IUU fishing, dilapidation of ocean health and illegal exploitation of sea resources, etc. have emerged as real and serious challenges not only to the commercial shipping but also to the national security. A comprehensive response from the worldwide seafaring community is the need of the hour to tackle these maritime threats, both natural and man-made. India’s initiative of establishing the Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) in the year 2018 can be regarded as a significant step in dealing with the variety of maritime security challenges. Jointly managed and run by the Indian Navy and Coast Guard, the IFC-IOR fulfils the purpose of creating Maritime Domain Awareness on the issues pertaining to maritime safety and security. Protecting maritime interests and augmenting security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) is indispensable for maintaining free navigation and overflight, unconstrained commerce and a free, open and UNCLOS-based regime in the IOR.

Analysis of the Jurisprudence of Article 58 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the Positions of West African Countries

Article 58 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) addresses the rights and obligations of States in the exclusive economic zones (EEZ) of other States. It guarantees third-party States the freedom of navigation, the laying of submarine cables and pipelines, and other internationally lawful uses of the sea related to these activities. However, these rights must be exercised in accordance with the laws and regulations of the coastal State and the UNCLOS itself. The jurisprudential analysis of this article reveals various interpretations, often influenced by distinct national contexts and interests. Disputes related to the EEZ mainly focus on issues of maritime delimitation, the exploitation of natural resources, and the protection of the marine environment. West African countries, rich in marine resources, have diverse positions depending on their economic, security, and environmental interests. Some favor a strict application of their sovereign rights to maximize economic benefits and resource sustainability, while others advocate for regional cooperation to manage potential conflicts and strengthen maritime security. In summary, Article 58 of UNCLOS is essential for balancing the interests of coastal States and third-party States in the EEZ while allowing for the harmonious management of maritime resources and maritime security.

Juridical Analysis of The Role of The Sea and Coast Guard in Improving Maritime Security and The Environment

Maritime security and environmental protection in Indonesian waters, especially in Tanjung Uban, are strategic issues considering the high level of shipping activities and potential threats to marine ecosystems. This study focuses on the juridical analysis of the role of the Marine and Coast Guard Unit (KPLP) in improving maritime security and environmental protection, with a case study at the Tanjung Uban Class II Marine and Coast Guard Base. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the implementation of the duties and functions of the KPLP based on the existing legal framework, identify the obstacles faced, and provide recommendations to improve the performance of the KPLP. The research method used is a qualitative approach with descriptive analysis, including document studies, field observations, and interviews with related parties. The results of the study show that although KPLP Tanjung Uban has a strong legal foundation, the implementation of their duties and functions is still not optimal. The main obstacles include limited resources such as adequate personnel and equipment, lack of continuous training which results in low personnel competence, and ineffective coordination with related agencies such as the Indonesian Navy and Bakamla. The low awareness and compliance with safety and environmental regulations among maritime industry players also exacerbates the situation. Based on these findings, this study provides several suggestions. For KPLP, an increase in the budget is needed for the procurement of resources and equipment, as well as continuous training for personnel. For the public, especially ship owners and other users of waters, it is important to increase awareness and compliance with maritime and environmental regulations through active participation in education and socialization programs. Meanwhile, the government must strengthen coordination between relevant agencies through the establishment of regular coordination forums and integrated information systems, to ensure better synergy in surveillance, law enforcement, and emergency response in the waters of Tanjung Uban. This research is expected to make a significant contribution to improving maritime security and environmental protection in Indonesia, as well as becoming a reference for the development of more effective policies and strategies in the management of water areas

Assessing Japan’s Taiwan Policy: Systemic Clarity, Political Survival and Bureaucratic Prudence

ABSTRACT What are the patterns of Japan’s foreign policy behavior toward Taiwan in the post-Cold War era? It is generally taken for granted that the origin of Japan’s foreign policy to Taiwan has been derived from a unitary strategic calculation related to East Asian international politics and its maritime security in the Asia-Pacific region. This conventional interpretation is insufficient. While external pressure and states’ relative material capabilities within the structure of the international system are crucial in explaining Japan’s policy toward Taiwan, interpretations based solely on the system level of analysis fail to provide a persuasive explanation of Japan’s foreign policy behavior. By conducting three case studies in 2006, 2019 and 2021 through the theoretical lens of neoclassical realism and empirical investigation based on primary and secondary Japanese-language sources, this article argues that Japan’s Taiwan policy has been shaped by the combination of three factors: the degree of systemic clarity at the international level, the Japanese prime minister’s political survival and bureaucratic prudence over the Taiwan issue at the domestic level. Since 2021, Japan has adopted a subtle approach to Taiwan, driven more by a defensive and precautionary response to the heightened sense of crisis across the Taiwan Strait.

Research on multi-UUV mission planning for mine countermeasures based on preferred multi-objective optimization

Facing rising maritime security threats, this study presents T-MOEA/D, a sophisticated evolutionary algorithm enhancing UUVs’ capabilities in mine detection and neutralization. The algorithm tackles the multi-objective challenge by balancing time and energy, integrating user preferences into its optimization process. It leverages genetic operators such as dual chromosome encoding and partially mapped crossover to evolve efficient solutions, outperforming T-NSGA-II and T-NSGA-III in hypervolume and operational time. The UUV, directed by T-MOEA/D, navigates to operational areas and employs StyleGAN and YOLOv9 for accurate mine perception, crucial for executing mine countermeasure tasks. The system’s effectiveness is confirmed through Unity3D simulations and real-world tests, demonstrating its practicality and reliability. The study’s findings offer strategic guidance for planning large-scale mine countermeasure missions with multiple UUVs, ensuring operational efficiency and safety in complex underwater environments. The Pareto optimal solutions align with user preferences, reflecting a tailored approach to mine countermeasure missions.

Exploring the Potential of the Blue Economy: A Systematic Review of Strategies for Enhancing International Business in Bangladesh in the context of Indo-Pacific Region

This systematic review aims to provide a methodical analysis of the Blue Economy in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly from the perspective of Bangladesh, focusing on its growth trajectory, key stakeholders, policy frameworks, technological advancements, trade and investment trends, as well as challenges and opportunities for international business expansion. The methods employed a comprehensive search of electronic databases, and inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to identify relevant studies for analysis. The results revealed that from 2000 to 2020, the Blue Economy sectors of the country, such as fisheries, aquaculture, maritime transportation, and tourism, saw notable development. International development agencies, corporations, academic institutions, governments, and civil society organizations are some of the major players in Blue Economy projects. The policy frameworks that facilitate the development of the Blue Economy include integrated ocean management, blue growth initiatives, maritime security and governance, and resilience and adaptation to climate change. Innovation and expansion in the Blue Economy sectors have been fueled by technological breakthroughs, such as autonomous underwater vehicles, renewable energy projects, remote sensing technologies, and marine biotechnology. Rising demand for sustainable goods and services, technical advancement, and regional collaboration have all contributed to an increase in trade and investment in Blue Economy industries internationally. The study concludes that there is significant potential for the Blue Economy in the Indo-Pacific region to drive economic growth, promote social progress, and ensure environmental sustainability. However, challenges such as regulatory complexity, access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental degradation need to be addressed to fully realize this potential. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts from governments, businesses, academia, civil society organizations, and international development agencies, along with a focus on sustainable and inclusive development practices.

India’s maritime security dilemma and geopolitical competition in Indo-Pacific

ABSTRACT Maritime security is a major concern in the contemporary global environment. Rapid technological progress has facilitated the exploration and utilisation of oceanic resources in remote offshore regions. Traditionally, the maritime domain has faced several threats, such as sea piracy, armed robberies, and illegal drugs. In the twenty-first century, with the rise of China as an important maritime power, geo-strategic competition has increased among great powers. India has long enjoyed a sphere of influence in the Indian Ocean Region has been challenged. The rise of China poses a credible security threat to India in the Indo-Pacific region. This article explores the dynamic backdrop of global, regional, and domestic politics and their effects on Indian foreign policy through the ocean. This article contends that the marine security initiatives and actions observed over the last decade necessitate more comprehensive consideration. In global maritime politics, India and the USA look to each other as partners to counterbalance China. Nevertheless, India is not ready for any military alliance against China based on Indian national interests. Therefore, this paper examines how India has pursued its ‘strategic autonomy’ in the region during the power rivalry between China and the US.

‘Pirates’, Potentates, and Merchant Petitioning in the Early Nineteenth Century Straits Settlements

Abstract In the nineteenth century Straits of Malacca, one of the globe’s most significant trading crossroads, merchants were integral to imperial stability and growth. Indeed, historians of the British empire have long sought to understand how colonial governments turned to merchants, both British and Asian, to extend commercial networks, establish local hierarchies and extend processes of state-building. Yet, merchants’ conceptions of their relationship to, and place within, colonial governance are less well understood. This article examines the emergence of colonial merchant politics in the British controlled Straits Settlements in the early nineteenth century. It concentrates on petitions produced by Asian merchants who demanded greater intervention by East India Company authorities in matters of maritime security and diplomacy. Petitions enabled the merchants of Singapore and Penang to inject their political and commercial visions into processes of colonial state-building. Moreover, these cases demonstrate that imperial margins — geographic, bureaucratic, linguistic and political — were productive spaces in which colonial power dynamics between state and society were contested and took on new meanings.

Enhancing maritime transportation security: A data-driven Bayesian network analysis of terrorist attack risks.

Maritime terrorist accidents have a significant low-frequency-high-consequence feature and, thus, require new research to address the associated inherent uncertainty and the scarce literature in the field. This article aims to develop a novel method for maritime security risk analysis. It employs real accident data from maritime terrorist attacks over the past two decades to train a data-driven Bayesian network (DDBN) model. The findings help pinpoint key contributing factors, scrutinize their interdependencies, ascertain the probability of different terrorist scenarios, and describe their impact on different manifestations of maritime terrorism. The established DDBN model undergoes a thorough verification and validation process employing various techniques, such as sensitivity, metrics, and comparative analyses. Additionally, it is tested against recent real-world cases to demonstrate its effectiveness in both retrospective and prospective risk propagation, encompassing both diagnostic and predictive capabilities. These findings provide valuable insights for the various stakeholders, including companies and government bodies, fostering comprehension of maritime terrorism and potentially fortifying preventive measures and emergency management.

Urgensi Penyatuan Lembaga Penegak Hukum di Laut Indonesia

In its efforts to enforce law at sea, Indonesia has 13 law enforcement agencies at sea. Six of these institutions have maritime patrol task forces. The number of law enforcement agencies in Indonesian seas is considered negative by several parties because of the potential for the authority of each agency to overlap. This research aims to find out what the condition of maritime law enforcement agencies in Indonesia is and what are the considerations for unifying maritime law enforcement agencies in Indonesia. This research is normative research related to maritime law enforcement agencies in Indonesia. There are at least 13 law enforcement agencies in Indonesian seas. The unification of maritime law enforcement agencies in Indonesia is necessary because unclear roles and authority, as well as a lack of coordination between agencies, have resulted in ineffectiveness in law enforcement and maritime security management. Indonesia needs unification of authority to strengthen all security, safety and maritime law enforcement functions in Indonesia

Building the rule of law for maritime security in China: a domestic law perspective

Maritime security is an essential component of national security, and the effective maintenance of China’s maritime security urgently needs a complete guarantee of the rule of law. Since the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, the construction of domestic law on maritime security has undergone three phases: slow development, formation and refinement. Although the rule of law in the seas has been constantly improved, it has provided essential safeguards for maintaining China’s maritime sovereignty, security, and rights and interests. It has facilitated the development of maritime undertakings. However, it still faces problems such as the lack of an explicit constitutional basis, the law of the sea is not an independent departmental law, the absence of the fundamental law of the sea, the lack of operability of marine legislation, and the existence of some gaps in marine laws. Given the problems with the current domestic law on maritime security, it is necessary to make improvements in the following areas: adding marine provisions to the Constitution, formulating the fundamental law of the sea and other marine laws, improving local marine laws, and introducing implementing regulations.