What does "Situational Awareness" refer to in maritime security?

Situational Awareness in maritime security encompasses the capability to identify, process, and comprehend critical information regarding potential threats to maritime safety. This concept involves being aware of the surrounding environment, recognizing any changes or anomalies that could indicate hazards, and understanding how these factors may affect the security of vessels and port facilities.

This awareness enables maritime personnel to make informed decisions and respond effectively to potential security incidents, such as piracy, unauthorized access, or environmental hazards. While maintaining cargo tracking, understanding shipping regulations, and using visual references are important skills and practices within the maritime sector, they do not capture the broad spectrum of understanding and interpreting the dynamic threat landscape that situational awareness entails. This ability is crucial for ensuring both safety and security in an increasingly complex maritime operational environment.