On January 30th, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) conducted a significant maritime security drill aboard its LNG vessel, ENERGY ADVANCE, in collaboration with various agencies including the Japan Coast Guard and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. This exercise, positioned off the coast of Chiba Prefecture, was designed to simulate a scenario in which the ENERGY ADVANCE was being pursued by suspicious vessels presumed to be pirates.
During the drill, the vessel’s crew was tested on their communication protocols in emergencies, acting as if they were facing an actual piracy threat. Information was transmitted back to MOL's Safety Operation Support Center (SOSC) and relevant authorities both domestically and internationally. Utilizing an emergency communication network, the coordination with the Japan Coast Guard’s patrol vessel, Akitsushima, was also evaluated to ensure an efficient joint response to a potential crisis.
MOL has been continuously strengthening its crisis management capabilities through regular joint training exercises with relevant organizations to improve its readiness for emergencies. The SOSC, established in February 2007, plays a pivotal role in this initiative, focusing on the prevention and precise response to threats such as terrorism and adverse weather conditions that could compromise maritime safety. The center operates on the motto of "not leaving the captain alone," providing 24/7 monitoring and essential information to support safe navigation for ships and their stakeholders.
This drill not only highlights MOL's initiatives towards enhancing security measures onboard but also underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in maritime safety. The agencies involved included:
- - The Japan Coast Guard’s International Criminal Affairs Division and the patrol vessel Akitsushima.
- - The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s Maritime Bureau Outer Seas Division.
- - The ReCAAP Information Sharing Center, focused on addressing piracy in Asia.
- - MOL Global Ship Management Pte. Ltd., the management company of the ship, which is part of the MOL Group.
- - Internal teams responsible for maritime safety and navigation.
The successful execution of this training reflects the commitment of MOL to ensure the safety and security of its vessels and crew, and to effectively respond to piracy, an ongoing concern in maritime operations worldwide. Regular drills not only prepare the crew and management for action but also reinforce partnerships with governmental and international organizations, creating a robust framework for maritime security. The ENERGY ADVANCE demonstrated its readiness to tackle modern piracy issues through this comprehensive training, assuring the industry of its proactive stance in safeguarding the seas.
Stakeholders involved can feel reassured that through continuous collaboration and training, MOL is dedicated to maintaining high safety standards in maritime operations. This emphasizes their commitment to not just operational excellence but to protecting lives and property against potential threats in the increasingly challenging maritime environment.