NATO issues guidance for correct identification of dhows, skiffs and whalers

NATO security measures

NATO has produced some very helpful information documents to assist in the identification of dhows, skiffs and whalers. It is recognised that vessels encounter significant numbers of small vessels during their transit of the high risk area (HRA) – the vast majority are, of course, exercising their lawful business.

Clearly this can still cause a lot of tension for the bridge team during close encounters, which is why NATO acted in this way. The guidance will also help the military receive improved reporting from vessels, and the merchant community is a valuable contributing factor in the fight against piracy as detailed and specific information provided by merchant vessels is extremely valuable to naval forces.

In some incidents this information has been essential in the successful disruption of pirate attacks as timely and descriptive reports help the NATO Shipping Centre (NSC) provide essential warnings and guidance to other ships in the area.

To download Identification guide for Dhows Skiffs and Whalers 2012, please click here.

To download Dhow and Skiff Recognition Chart 2012, please click here.

To download Fisheries Template for Yemen, please click here.

Source: NATO Shipping Centre