An overview of maritime and port security

There has been a growing need to increase maritime and port security in recent years while allowing for the free movement of people and commerce through these facilities. This enhanced security needs to be implemented both landside and waterside and may pose a significant challenge for operations and security personnel. The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code was created by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to define minimum associated responsibilities for shipping companies, ship personnel, port operators, and associated agencies. There are a number of commercial off the shelf technology components that have been used to provide or enhance security at maritime facilities. In this paper, we will discuss the implementation of the aforementioned government programs and the deployment of port security systems using commercial off the shelf (COTS) products and their integration with command and control platforms. Best practices and what has been done at a number of generic facilities across the U.S. will also be discussed.