Question

The main moot and the objective of the Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) is to collect the maximum information and intelligence about any ship, or vessel in the country’s waters. With the collected data, a complete inference can be drawn about all those marine areas that could cause potential damage with respect to safety, security, eco-system and the economic system. This process is known as ‘actionable intelligence.’ MDA also deals extensively in matters pertaining to anti-piracy methods, smuggling of drugs through the marine channels and other unlawful activities that could be carried out through marine transportation. Every government faces similar maritime security challenges.

a) Discuss the Smart-boxes (container) technology and how these boxes with in- built sensors assist authorities in screening for weapons and other unlawful objects being carried into the ship

(b) Discuss what is the Container Security Initiatives (CSI)

Answer 1

Smart-boxes technology enhances maritime security by allowing for real-time screening of containers for unlawful objects, contributing to actionable intelligence for MDA. The Container Security Initiative is a U.S.-initiated program that collaborates with other countries to pre-screen high-risk containers, improving global maritime trade security.

Step-by-step explanation:

Smart-boxes (container) technology

Smart-boxes, also known as 'smart containers', are equipped with in-built sensors that provide authorities with the ability to screen for weapons and other unlawful objects. These containers have the technology to detect a wide range of threats including explosives, drugs, and chemical agents. They are impactful in aiding Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) efforts by collecting data in real-time, thus contributing to the generation of actionable intelligence.

Container Security Initiative (CSI)

The Container Security Initiative is a program initiated by the United States that aims to safeguard global trade and prevent the smuggling of terrorist weapons. CSI proposes pre-screening of containers that pose a risk before they are shipped to U.S. ports. Participating countries collaborate in identifying and inspecting high-risk containers, thereby enhancing the security of the maritime domain and impeding criminal activities related to shipping.