Latest Coast Guard counter-piracy directive describes a broader area of threats

Somali pirates

The U.S. Coast Guard has announced that it updated its counter-piracy Directive 104-6 for the fifth time on Dec. 30, 2011 and that this latest version “provides a revised and updated list of designated high risk waters and areas,” says a Coast Guard notice posted in the Federal Register on Jan. 30.

The five earlier versions of the same Coast Guard directive provided counter-piracy guidance to operators of U.S.-flagged vessels operating in high-risk waters, particularly off the 2,300-mile coast of Somalia; encouraged the use of industry best practices; advised operators to maintain security vigilance even while their ships are berthed in ports; and further expanded the area in which Somali pirates are apparently operating.

Some of the earlier directives were posted publicly, but the latest iteration is available only to “covered persons” who have a “need to know,” explains the Coast Guard notice.

“Owners and operators of U.S.-flagged vessels that travel on international voyages must contact their local [Captain of the Port], cognizant District Commander or the Office of Vessel Activities to acquire a copy of MARSEC Directive 104-6 (Rev 6),” says the notice.

Further information is available from LCDR James Fogle, of the Coast Guard’s office of vessel activities, at 202-372-1038 or James.T.Fogle@uscg.mil.