The National ISPS Coordinating Authority continuously monitors the maritime security situation in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.
On 18 December 2023, the National ISPS Coordinating Authority issued a continuation notice (OXXO) regarding the implementation of ISPS MARSEC Level 3, which was introduced on 9 March 2022 for the north-western Black Sea, Crimea, and the Sea of Azov north of the line: 45°08N–29°48E – 44°00N–34°00E – 44°43N–37°27E. The security risk to civilian shipping in these areas persists. The National ISPS Coordinating Authority therefore maintains MARSEC Level 3 for these areas.
MARSEC Level 3 (Ukrainian ports), in force since 28 February 2022, remains applicable.
The remainder of the Black Sea remains at MARSEC Level 1 until further notice.
Please be aware of possible GPS jamming, AIS spoofing, communication disruptions, and cyberattacks in the area. Harassment and diversion of shipping traffic in the region cannot be ruled out.
In addition, the Turkish and Romanian authorities have reported drifting mines in the south-western Black Sea. Civilian shipping in the southern and south-western parts of the Black Sea is encouraged to maintain an effective lookout and avoid floating objects.
Please ensure that all navigational warnings issued by the Ukrainian authorities via NAVTEX and by the NATO Shipping Centre (https://shipping.nato.int/nsc), including warnings from the Spanish Navy NAVAREA, are closely monitored.
It is recommended to keep AIS switched on at all times and to clearly state intentions on VHF. Any instructions issued by military forces should be followed if challenged.
If Danish ships are in immediate danger, activate the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS), send a distress alert via the Digital Selective Calling (DSC) system, and make a “Mayday” call on VHF channel 16.
Point of contact: Danish Maritime Assistance Service, mas@sok.dk, +45 72 85 03 71.
The Danish Maritime Assistance Service will forward any inquiries to the relevant Danish authority.