Tests begin on new maritime security software

The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre has announced it has started testing new software aimed at increasing maritime security and reducing piracy in the Indian Ocean.

The technology is being tested at two maritime operational centres in Kenya and the Seychelles. The software provides a live feed of shipping traffic and activity off the coast on a digital map. Along with data from other vessel reporting and Earth Observation systems, the Piracy, Maritime Awareness and Risks (PMAR) system creates a single maritime picture of the entire western Indian Ocean.

The system was developed by the JRC over a three year period following a request by the European Parliament. The one-year trial will help to improve the maritime surveillance capabilities and the testing is being financed through the 10th European Development Fund under the EU’s programme to promote regional maritime security. Managed by the Indian Ocean Commission, the mapping system also provides additional information on past pirate incidents and historic shipping traffic density.