What are the biggest operational challenges your agency encounters in securing vessels going in and out of the region?

Our biggest operational challenges arise when operating in and out of Somaliland waters. The Coast Guard is responsible for more than 850 kilometres of coastline, and our crews operate both within territorial waters and sometimes beyond them. Because of this wide area of responsibility, we face limitations in operational capability and in the availability of Coast Guard assets.

Another major challenge occurs during vessel movements—going in and out of various areas. There are many different phases in these operations, but a key issue throughout is communication. Effective communication is essential for both operations and daily activities, yet we sometimes face difficulties in maintaining it. In some places—especially within the Eastern and Western commands—communication systems are limited or not functioning well. This affects our ability to communicate with certain facilities or vessels that may not have adequate communication equipment. As a result, we are sometimes unable to get a clear understanding of real-time situations.

During operations, we also receive information from fishing boats or other type of boats, but limited communication capability makes it difficult to respond promptly. This lack of robust communication systems is one of our main operational challenges.

Some specialized vessels also do not have standard communication systems, such as AIS features while in some cases, they may intentionally switch these systems off when entering our territorial waters or when approaching areas of concern. This makes it harder to identify them and to understand their intentions.

How have evolving piracy tactics or regional instability impacted your security strategies in recent years?

We have not had any reported piracy cases recently. However, we remain vigilant because of our proximity to areas where piracy originates, particularly Somalia. We believe that if piracy groups become more capable and stronger, they could impact our national and maritime security across the Indian Ocean and, at times, even beyond.

At present, our territorial waters, our contingency zone, and our EEZ are secure and stable. But in the future, if piracy grows stronger and more influential, it could threaten our maritime security. Therefore, we are considering several tactics and measures to prepare for such a scenario.

One important tactic involves engaging with territorial and coastal communities. Since piracy often originates at land within these communities, we need to strengthen our relationships with local people—including fishermen, customs personnel, and others. Community awareness and advocacy programs are essential for building trust and preventing piracy from taking root.

Another key area is improving Coast Guard capability. Enhancing human resource capacity, technological capability, and operational readiness are all important steps toward preventing and responding to piracy-related activities in Somaliland and the wider region.

We also place significant emphasis on international engagement. One of Somaliland’s strategies has been to participate more actively in international forums to gather information on regional threats—especially regarding potential piracy vessels. Cooperation with maritime security agencies in neighbouring countries, such as Djibouti, Yemen, and Somalia, as well as with partners like the EU, is crucial.

Through information-sharing platforms such as IORIS and collaborative efforts, we can exchange data, tactics, ideas, and knowledge. Working together enhances our ability to counter piracy, disrupt their operations, and even influence the way potential piracy groups think before they attempt to organize.

What logistical or coordination difficulties arise when working with multiple regional authorities and international naval forces, such as EUNAVFOR ATALANTA, Combined Maritime Forces, and local coast guards?

There are some logistical difficulties, especially now. Standardization is very important when working with counterparts, such as neighbouring navies or friendly countries. When equipment and systems follow different standards, operations become harder to coordinate.

For example, during communication exercises—such as those involving the EU Naval Force’s Operation Atalanta—the systems used by different partners may not be compatible. Communication systems, command systems, or even exit and entry procedures can differ, and this affects decision-making during operations.

Logistical capability is also a significant factor. For instance, when working with regional or friendly counterparts on joint operations, if we do not have similar logistical capacity or compatible systems, it becomes difficult to coordinate and achieve shared objectives. So this is one of the important points to take into consideration.

We coordinate with regional naval forces—such as foreign naval commands—primarily through communication and information-sharing during operations, special missions, and incident responses. We use our communication systems and platforms to stay connected.

Recently, coordination and communication among maritime agencies across the region, including local organizations and international counterparts, has become extremely important. Sometimes we also use other communication channels, such as video links, especially when working in the same operational area.

For example, if our Coast Guard boats are operating near units from other naval forces, we can communicate directly via radio. In addition, during certain situations, we also communicate with EU Naval Forces and other maritime partners as needed.

At present, the main communication platform we use is IORIS, which enables us to see what other partners are sharing and allows them to see our updates as well. Although we do not have direct communication channels with every partner, IORIS brings all of us onto one shared platform. If we need to contact a partner privately or separately, we can still do so through the system.

What environmental or geographic factors (e.g., vast patrol areas, weather, chokepoints) create the most significant obstacles to maintaining consistent maritime security in the region?

Geographical factors pose significant impediments and serve as real obstacles to maintaining consistent maritime security in the region. The area contains several strategic maritime choke points, and we are extremely close to potential threats and vulnerabilities related to major maritime projects.

Protecting such important maritime channels is a shared responsibility for all countries in the region—especially for regional maritime law-enforcement agencies and Coast Guards. As Coast Guard, we believe that one of our core tasks, and indeed our obligation, is to play an important role in maintaining regional stability, international peace, freedom of navigation, and the free flow of trade. These elements are essential for the economic well-being of the entire region.

For this reason, securing critical maritime choke points—particularly ports and other maritime infrastructure—is of the utmost importance. Although our capabilities and operational effectiveness may sometimes be limited, we fully recognize our responsibility. We are committed to fulfilling our role in safeguarding the region and ensuring maritime security without compromising journalistic freedom or transparency in maritime affairs.

During the recent 3^rd IORIS Steering Committee Policy Board and Working Group Meeting, priorities were identified to improve IORIS and strengthen its operational effectiveness. What are the priority improvements and follow-up actions needed to enhance usability and operational outcomes in your perspective?

We currently have only two operational centres, located in Hargeisa and Berbera. These centres use the IORIS platform. Along the wider coastline, we have three additional Coast Guard stations, but they still operate with their own systems and do not yet have fully suitable ICT and communication capabilities.

In my opinion, expanding across our entire coastline is essential. This will play a very important role in our future operations and in preventing potential threats or aggression. Because without capability, we cannot operate; and without information, we cannot take action at sea. Therefore, two areas are equally critical: improving operational capability through suitable assets such as boats and reliable communication systems and strengthening the information-sharing network. Without reliable information exchange, you simply cannot launch or coordinate operations.

For this reason, I strongly recommend expanding the IORIS platform across the Somaliland Coast Guard and also including other national maritime stakeholders. That would be the logical next step.

However, as mentioned, there are challenges. One major issue is that EU personnel cannot access some coastal locations because of security restrictions. This limits their ability to support us directly on site. As a result, officers must be brought to Hargeisa or Berbera for training, which can take one or even two days of travel. This logistical burden is significant. It becomes even more challenging when we consider officers from the more remote stations along the coast—some up to 350 kilometres away. Even when external experts arrive, they can only train a limited number of our personnel at a time.

Another obstacle is the limited availability of stable, fast internet and adequate hardware. Some stations do not even have proper equipment—computers, screens, or ICT tools—needed to run the system. So while expanding the IORIS platform is essential, we must also address these infrastructure gaps to ensure it can function effectively. These are important points to keep in mind as we plan the next phase of expansion.

We also have to remember that we need to follow the IT developments, hence what is really important is continuous receiving training to be updated.

How do you see the IORIS developments in the region?

Since we joined the IORIS community, the development of the Somaliland Coast Guard has improved day by day. At first, the platform was difficult for us to understand and operate. However, our operations centres in Hargeisa and Berbera have now become fully familiar with it. Our officers can use the system effectively and can even support senior officers during decision-making processes.

For example, before commanders such as the Admiral make any decision, they must first have proper and accurate information. Today, our IORIS operations team knows how to use the system well—how to share information, how to receive information from partner agencies across the region, and how to coordinate with relevant authorities.

A good example is our recent search-and-rescue operation, where we successfully saved a fisherman and recovered a missing fishing vessel. For the first time, through IORIS, Djibouti Coast Guard shared information immediately. Our operations officer in Hargeisa received the alert and informed us instantly. We then prepared and deployed our search-and-rescue teams. The operation was completed successfully thanks to very active coordination between Djibouti Coast Guard, the EU NAVFOR, and our own operations centres in Hargeisa and Berbera. This was a strong demonstration of how effective IORIS can be when used properly.

While our teams are motivated and ready to play their roles, we still need to expand the platform across the entire coastline.

The biggest challenges we face in expanding IORIS are:

1. Logistics and accessibility:
   Many remote coastal stations are difficult to reach. It can take officers one or two days to travel to Hargeisa or Berbera for training.
2. Limited infrastructure:
   Several stations lack reliable internet, computers, screens, and other ICT equipment needed to operate the system.
3. Continuous training needs:
   Personnel changes frequently. Even officers who were trained earlier may move to other roles, and new staff require ongoing training.
   Because technology and the IORIS platform evolve continuously, training cannot be a one-time event. We need regular exercises and refresher courses to ensure the system is used effectively.

Despite these challenges, we are making continuous progress. Our capacity is improving, our teamwork is stronger, and the operational results—like the recent rescue—show that the investment in IORIS is truly valuable.

To know more about Somaliland Coast Guard: https://marines.govsomaliland.org

L’article Protecting the coastline: insights from the Somaliland Coast Guard est apparu en premier sur Crimario II.

Opening the event, the EU Ambassador to the Philippines Massimo Santoro remarked: “The collective presence of all partners and stakeholders today underlines our shared understanding of the need to work together across agencies and borders to uphold a peaceful, secure, and rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific. The European Union stands ready to support these collective efforts, fostering coordination, resilience, and freedom of navigation in line with the rule of law and the UN Charter.”

Participants deliberated on key policy, operational and technical areas and opportunities to enhance cooperation across the region, using IORIS, from the east coast of Africa, through Asia and the Pacific, to Latin America. The event featured presentations of success stories that illustrate the platform’s tangible impact and contribution to regional cooperation. Notable examples included the interdiction of narcotics and other contraband, life-saving interventions during complex Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, coordinated counter-piracy efforts, and cooperative actions to combat illegal, unregulated, and unreported fisheries (IUU).

“This meeting  set the path for IORIS to meet the evolving needs of our agencies and partners,” said Martin Cauchi Inglott, EU CRIMARIO project director. “We will align operational exercises, user feedback, and legal standards to build a future-ready system that strengthens trust and readiness.

Recognizing that maritime security challenges transcend national borders, participants worked together to plan a more effective use of the platform for interagency operational coordination and international collaboration, essential to swiftly and efficiently respond to threats at sea.

Vadm Roy A. Echeverria, Director of the National Maritime Centre concluded: “In line with the recent EU-Philippines Security and Defence Dialogue, the IORIS Steering Committee Working groups meeting will further deepen our strategic partnership, opening doors for enhanced cooperation in maritime security, hybrid threats, and regional resilience. This partnership, grounded in the rule of law and international norms, underscores our shared commitment to upholding a rules-based maritime order and increase regional cooperation on maritime security.”

During the conference, officials discussed latest IORIS improvements (such as Prime and Lite) and future plans for IORIS mobile application and variants, aimed to find suitable solutions for improving platform’s performance, usability, and operational effectiveness. Moreover, they provided feedback on system performance, identify key successes, challenges, and lessons learned, and agree on priority improvements and follow-up actions to enhance usability and operational outcomes.

The meeting also presented plans for future IORIS trainings and exercises, including frequency, participating partners, and exercise levels, highlighting the critical role of exercises in preparing agencies for future operational challenges.

Meanwhile, the Legal Working Group reviewed cases concerning the admissibility of digital evidence in different jurisdictions. They adopted a common stance on evidence obtained through IORIS and outline the legal steps required to achieve ISO 27001 certification, ensuring that digital evidence management remains secure and compliant.

L’article Forty-five Indo-Pacific countries unite in Manila to strengthen maritime cooperation via IORIS est apparu en premier sur Crimario II.

The training brought together officers from various agencies to explore the practical use of IORIS in daily operations. Through live simulations and hands-on exercises, participants were shown how the platform improves maritime domain awareness, monitors vessel activity, and enhances interagency coordination. These capabilities are critical in combating illegal fishing, smuggling, and other maritime threats.

A Clear Picture of Collaboration

Captured during one of these sessions, a compelling image illustrates the platform in action: officers actively engaged with the IORIS interface, analysing data and sharing updates in real time. The photo reflects not just a technical demonstration but a vivid example of cross-agency cooperation powered by digital innovation.

We interviewed Thilini Nawagamuwa, Assistant Director DFAR, who took the picture during the event.

Can you describe the situation taking place when the photo was captured?

The photo was taken during a training session for fisheries officers, aimed at demonstrating the operational use of the IORIS platform. The session focused on enhancing maritime domain awareness, monitoring fishing vessel activity, and coordinating with other agencies.

How does this photo demonstrate the importance of information sharing at sea?

The photo highlights the crucial role of real-time information sharing at sea. By using platforms like IORIS, authorities can coordinate more effectively, reduce response times, and make informed decisions. This is essential for improving maritime domain awareness, preventing illegal activities, and ensuring navigational safety. The image captures the essence of interagency collaboration enabled by shared digital tools.

Why do you feel this image is a strong representation of IORIS in action?

This image powerfully illustrates IORIS in action by showing its practical application in a multi-agency training context. It reflects the platform’s role in fostering cooperation, facilitating dynamic information exchange, and integrating technology to meet shared maritime security objectives. The active participation of officers and use of real-time scenarios reinforce the platform’s value in operational environments.

About DFAR

The Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR) is Sri Lanka’s national authority responsible for managing fisheries and overseeing maritime surveillance. DFAR plays a central role in ensuring sustainable fishing practices, enforcing maritime laws, and enhancing maritime security. In partnership with local and international actors, the department uses tools like IORIS to support efficient and secure information sharing.

L’article IORIS in pictures: capturing coordination in action est apparu en premier sur Crimario II.

This image, selected as one of the winning entries in the IORIS Photo Competition held in February, highlights the everyday efforts of maritime personnel working across agencies and borders.
Sumbmitted by the Somaliland Coast Guard, the photo captures the commitment of those behind the scenes who help drive collaboration and real-time coordination at sea. The following responses were provided by the photographer who submitted the image.

1. Can you describe the situation taking place when the photo was captured? “This photo was taken during a visit by the Commander of the Somaliland Coast Guard to the Operations Room at Coast Guard Headquarters. During the visit, the Operations Room team was explaining how the IORIS platform has enhanced information sharing and coordination—both within Somaliland and with international partners. It was an important opportunity to showcase how IORIS is being used in practice to support operational readiness.”

2. How does this photo demonstrate the importance of information sharing at sea? “The image reflects the Somaliland Coast Guard’s readiness to engage in real-time information exchange. It shows how we are actively using IORIS to share critical maritime data with partners, supporting joint efforts to monitor and secure the maritime domain. The ability to connect with other agencies and countries is essential for effective maritime security.”

3. Why do you feel this image is a strong representation of IORIS in action? “I believe it represents the hard work and commitment of Coast Guard staff who have undergone IORIS training and now work around the clock to support maritime coordination. It’s a simple but honest portrayal of the people behind the platform—those who keep it running and ensure it delivers value every day.”

About the Somaliland Coast Guard

The Somaliland Coast Guard plays a vital role in protecting the country’s maritime interests, enforcing laws at sea, and supporting regional and international cooperation. Operating 24/7 along Somaliland’s coastline, the Coast Guard helps secure sea lanes, safeguard marine resources, and protect critical national infrastructure.

Mission

To maintain a secure, lawful, and sustainable maritime environment by enforcing Somaliland’s sovereignty, deterring maritime crime, and contributing to regional security and economic wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities

• Maritime Domain Awareness (24/7): Ongoing monitoring of maritime activity across territorial waters.
• Maritime Law Enforcement: Implementing national and international maritime regulations.
• Surveillance and Patrols: Conducting regular patrols to detect and deter unlawful activity.
• Anti-Smuggling Operations: Preventing the transport of contraband, arms, and illegal goods.
• Maritime Customs and Border Control: Managing lawful vessel entry and cargo monitoring.
• Fisheries Control (IUU): Protecting marine resources from illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing.
• Port and Infrastructure Security: Securing ports and maritime infrastructure.
• Search and Rescue (SAR): Responding to emergencies at sea and saving lives.
• Environmental Protection: Responding to pollution incidents and conserving marine ecosystems.
• Maritime Security Operations: Addressing piracy, terrorism, and transnational maritime threats.

This image and the story behind it offer a real-world glimpse into how IORIS is used every day—not just as a tool, but as a bridge between people, agencies, and nations working together for maritime safety and security.

L’article IORIS in pictures: faces of maritime collaboration est apparu en premier sur Crimario II.

The image featured in this article was submitted by MRCC Chile as part of a photo contest launched by CRIMARIO last February. The initiative was designed to highlight the role of the IORIS platform in facilitating cooperation, coordination, and communication among maritime actors. Far from symbolic, the photo captures a live operational setting that reflects how IORIS strengthens maritime situational awareness and promotes secure, cross-border collaboration.

This interview with Sargento 1° Javier Bahamonde Ramírez, Supervisor General NCAGS, Chilean Nany, provides insight into the operational reality behind the photo—a moment where coordination, professionalism, and technology intersect in service of maritime safety.

 Can you describe the situation taking place when the photo was captured?

The photo was taken during the “REGEX LATAM SEGMAREX” regional maritime exercise. It shows the MRCC Chile situation room in full operation, managing a Search and Rescue (SAR) case while actively exchanging critical information with Latin American partner countries via the IORIS platform. The image reflects a high-functioning coordination centre executing its mandate in a simulated, but realistic, emergency context.

How does this photo demonstrate the importance of information sharing at sea?

The photo visually demonstrates how timely access to multi-source data—shared through platforms like IORIS—enhances the speed and accuracy of maritime decision-making. It underscores the operational need for interoperability, disciplined communication protocols, and structured coordination mechanisms, especially in cross-border SAR operations. It is a clear reminder that safety at sea hinges not just on assets, but on informed and connected personnel.

Why do you feel this image is a strong representation of IORIS in action?

The image captures the essence of IORIS in practice—multiple professionals with defined responsibilities collaborating through a secure, shared platform. It illustrates how the system enables the real-time integration of data, clarity of roles, and cross-institutional synergy. IORIS is not a passive tool—it is an active enabler of maritime coordination, and this photograph is a compelling representation of that capability.

In the Chilean Navy since 2002, Sargento 1° Javier Bahamonde Ramírez has been assigned since 2022 to the Directorate of Maritime Safety and Operations in Valparaíso. Currently stationed at both the Naval Maritime Traffic Control Center and MRCC Chile, he is directly involved in maritime incident coordination, vessel monitoring, and inter-agency communication. His operational and technical knowledge supports Chile’s growing role in regional maritime safety.

ABOUT MRCC Chile

The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre Chile (MRCC Chile) is the national authority responsible for coordinating maritime search and rescue operations within Chile’s internationally designated Search and Rescue Region (SRR). Operating under the Directorate General of the Maritime Territory and Merchant Marine (DIRECTEMAR), MRCC Chile meets the highest international standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Its core mission is to preserve life at sea through the activation and coordination of naval, air, and ground resources. Beyond its SAR function, MRCC Chile plays a critical role in maritime surveillance, data exchange, and incident prevention, acting as a key strategic node in the South Pacific’s maritime safety architect

L’article Operational readiness and regional Coordination: MRCC Chile demonstrates the strategic value of information sharing est apparu en premier sur Crimario II.

As maritime challenges grow more complex, real-time information sharing and coordinated action are more vital than ever. This featured interview with SN1 Victor Vicente T. Viceral of the Philippine Coast Guard Command Center highlights how the IORIS platform supports collaboration, training, and operational readiness—captured through a powerful image taken during a simulated maritime incident.

L’article IORIS in pictures: strengthening maritime coordination in the Philippines est apparu en premier sur Crimario II.

L’article Strengthening Maritime Security: Somalia Inaugurates New Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre est apparu en premier sur Crimario II.

Through the one-week exercise, IORIS facilitated monitoring, control, and surveillance (MCS) operations of a fishing fleet composed of 16 Panama and Ecuador-flagged vessels. The scope of the operation was to verify the status of the fishing vessels, examine the veracity of licences and authorisations to fish, and oversee transhipment-at-sea with supporting reefers and tankers.
Navies, authorities and agencies involved:
COLOMBIA: Navy, National Maritime Direction (Maritime Authority – DIMAR), Ministry of Environment and Malpelo Flora and Fauna Sanctuary.
COSTA RICA: National Park Cocos Island.
ECUADOR: Navy, Coast Guard (Maritime Authority), Undersecretary of Fishing, Galapagos National Park.
PANAMA: Aeronaval Service (SENAN), Coiba National Park and MAR VIVA FOUNDATION
PERU: Coast Guard (Maritime Authority).
The exercise enabled the creation of an IORIS-based Community Area that continues to live on after REGEX, facilitating communication, coordination and collaboration among all the countries which are part of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor (CMAR), an intergovernmental initiative to promote conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity in the Eastern Tropical Pacific through regional governmental strategies, and supported by civil society, international cooperation and non-governmental agencies.
Supported by civil society, international cooperation, and non-governmental organisations, the corridor has, as core areas, the marine protected areas of the Malpelo Flora and Fauna Sanctuary, the Gorgona National Natural Park (Colombia), the Coiba National Park (Panama), the Galapagos National Park and Marine Reserve (Ecuador), and the National Park Cocos Island (Costa Rica), which form a Network of Marine Protected Areas.

You can read more about how CRIMARIO helps in addressing Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated fishing click here: https://www.crimario.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IORIS_Brochure_IUU_A4_V5.pdf.

L’article IORIS In support of Maritime Conservation in Latin America est apparu en premier sur Crimario II.