Ships and ports face deliberate threats as well as natural ones. Maritime security comprises the measures taken to protect vessels, port facilities, and maritime infrastructure from terrorism, piracy, smuggling, and other unlawful acts.

The ISPS Code sets mandatory security requirements for ships and ports engaged in international trade. Ship security plans, port facility plans, access controls, and security levels form the operational framework. Naval and coast guard forces provide further layers in high-risk areas.

Security measures must balance protection with the flow of commerce. Excessive delay frustrates trade; inadequate security invites attack. Crews train for stowaway searches, bomb threats, and piracy attack response. Effective maritime security is a shared responsibility of owners, operators, and states.

• Protection of ships and ports from unlawful threats
• Includes anti-piracy, anti-terrorism, and access control
• Governed by ISPS Code and national measures
• Balances security with commercial efficiency