Vessels should report to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) when entering the Indian Ocean voluntary reporting area (VRA) as outlined in the Best Management Practices 5 (BMP5).

The following instructions should be implemented to ensure safety and security on-board:

1.  Masters register with UKMTO when entering the Indian Ocean VRA.

2. Comply with Flag State Guidance.

3. 24-48 hrs in advance – Masters provide transit plans for the SoH and AG to UKMTO (including:

– Time of Entering/Exiting the SoH TSS

– Outline of Navigation Plan whilst operating in SoH and AG

– Any constraints or speed restrictions

– Crew Nationality

4. CSO’s ensure all contact numbers for UKMTO and USNAVCENT NCAGS are correct.

5. In the event of any incident or being concerned, Masters should call UKMTO immediately.

6. Masters answer all VHF calls from coalition navies. Ch16 is becoming very busy, alternative channels will be offered.

7. CSOs and Masters prepare, print and have available the correct response if called on VHF.

This guidance should be posted on the vessel’s bridge for ease of access to watch officers, and should be discussed during watch turnovers or safety meetings, as per Company Security Officer & Master instructions.

Additional sources of information:

– Safety & Security and the use of Privately Contracted Armed Security Personnel (PCASP) in Arabian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman

– BMP5: Best Management Practices to Deter Piracy and Enhance Maritime Security in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea.

– OCIMF’s Ship Security: Hull Vulnerability Study

– NATO ATP2 – NCAGS Guide to Owners, Operators, Masters and Officers Edition A Version 1 Annex D to Chp 4

Source: https://www.ocimf.org

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