The Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) has increased the security level in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman.
As stated, with reference to the serious developments in the Middle East, the Norwegian Maritime Authority is expanding the area with an increased security level, MARSEC/ISPS level 2, to the following areas:
- Iranian territorial waters
- The entire Strait of Hormuz
- International waters in the Gulf of Oman
It is recommended to minimize sailing time in Iranian territorial waters by sailing in international waters as close to Oman as possible. The situation is very uncertain and can escalate quickly. This also applies to ports and other international waters in the areas.
The risk of GNSS and AIS interference is very high throughout the region. It is recommended to establish a safety margin to prevent accidental entry into Iranian domain in case of spoofing or absence of positioning signals.
Recommended measures
- Conduct a full security assessment before ships enter the area. Threat assessments and transit advice for the region are provided by UKMTO and EUNAVFOR and can be found on the MSCIO website.
- Reports to UKMTO and MSCIO in accordance with guidelines.
- Ensure that emergency procedures and routines for loss of GNSS/GPS signals are relevant and updated according to the threat landscape, and implemented on board.
- Use the BMP5 in preparations and operations, and prepare ships and crews, through planning and exercises.
- Be alert and maintain a high level of situational awareness, both en route and in port.
