The National ISPS Coordinating Authority continuously monitors the maritime security situation in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Oman.
On 8 January 2024, the National ISPS Coordinating Authority issued an OXXO notice regarding the maintenance of ISPS MARSEC Level 2 for the area due to the deteriorating security situation. The MARSEC level is based on an overall assessment of the security threat to Danish shipping in the region, including threats related to missiles, drones, and piracy.
In light of the continued tense security situation, the National ISPS Coordinating Authority assesses that MARSEC Level 2 remains necessary for Danish shipping in the following areas:
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The southern part of the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
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The Gulf of Aden.
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The Gulf of Oman.
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The Arabian Sea south of Oman.
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The Indian Ocean north of the Maldives and west of India.
Danish shipping is encouraged to exercise increased vigilance, implement enhanced security measures, and follow applicable guidelines and advice from relevant maritime security authorities, including UKMTO, EUNAVFOR, the NATO Shipping Centre, and the Danish Maritime Assistance Service.
Vessels are advised to keep AIS activated, maintain the ability to communicate via VHF, and follow instructions issued by military units in the area. Attention is also drawn to the possibility of cyberattacks and GPS interference.
If Danish vessels are in imminent danger, activate the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS), send a distress alert via the Digital Selective Calling (DSC) system, and issue 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.