Homework Responses Wk 5

Based on the current threat, what is the biggest gap in the current maritime ashore security and afloat requirements? You can comment on qualifications, exercise requirements and or formal classroom work. Additionally, discuss the framework for managing and leading a security force and maintaining force competences in port security.

Good day, Professor and Class;

We explore the gap in the current maritime ashore security and afloat requirements based on the current threat for this week’s discussion. First, we have to consider what the current threat is. Many of us suggested that cyber-threat is the current threat, while others suggested that terrorism is the current threat. Terrorism has been a threat to ports and ports security for a while now, and the government has implemented some measures in place to counter the threat. Piracy is another threat the government and private entities encountered by hiring PMCs and PSCs to combat the threat. However, and I agree with most of my classmates, the government has ignored the cyber-threat coming from terrorists and terrorist groups. Cyber-threat continues to grow, and terrorists continue to exploit new ways to attack and inflict the most significant amount of damage, but this time to our infrastructures.

Terrorists can, and it is just a matter of time until they start attacking infrastructures to cripple the economy and the government, and what better way to do that than attacking the maritime transportation system. The old ways of using bombs and suicide bombers are almost gone, and the new era of figuring out new ways to attack with minimal losses from the terrorists’ side is coming upon us, and we need to better prepare for that day. Another gap I see is the lack or absence of a business continuity plan in case of an incident. The plans might be already established and are in place, and we do not know about them, but none of the initiatives, policies, or acts discussed the part of “What should we do in case of an incident?”
The framework for managing and leading a security force and maintain security force competencies in port security. The security manager in a port environment is responsible for reducing the port environment’s risks and understanding the risks, vulnerabilities, and threats in the port environment (Christopher, 2014). The security manager should develop a training plan and utilize multiple training mediums such as PowerPoint slides, online courses, and, most importantly, drills to simulate threats at the port. However, one of the essential aspects of security management in ports is providing clear directives to the security forces. Communication is critical, and without communication, the security forces will not have clear instructions on their duties.
 
References
Christopher, K. (2014). Port Security Management (2nd ed.). CRC Press. https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/apus/reader.action?docID=1578619