Therefore , nations have to develop national strategies and legal framework for the protection of Maritime Critical Infrastructure , in cooperation with organizations , like NATO and EU .
NATO ’ s Political Guidance 2023 describes the demand for the Strategic Commands to take into their consideration all the potential dangers in which the MCI ’ s and CUI ’ s are exposed . Moreover , protection of Maritime Critical Infrastructure constitutes one of the main NATO tasks in the field of Maritime Security Operations .
In order to present a more robust result , a multi-layered approach should be developed consisting of the following :
a . International Cooperation : Given the International nature of oilrigs , submarine cables and pipelines , protecting these assets requires collaboration among nations and synergy between their state and non-state actors ( Government organizations , Armed Forces , Constabulary Organizations , Agencies , Private companies , NGOs ).
b . Technological Solutions : Advancements in monitoring technologies , such as data fusion , remote sensing , acoustic monitoring and autonomous underwater vehicles could help in early detection of threats and damages , enabling timely responses .
c . Legal and Regulatory Measures : Establishing clear legal frameworks and international agreements would deter intentional acts against maritime infrastructure . These measures can define responsibilities , standardize protective actions and establish heavy penalties for perpetrators .
d . Incident Response and Recovery Plans : Developing and implementing plans of rapid response and abilities to recover any damages would be a necessary step , in order to have a comprehensive strategy for the protection of the MCIs .
As the reliance on maritime and underwater infrastructure grows , so does the imperative to fortify its security , ensuring the uninterrupted flow of energy , information and resources , crucial for the prosperity and welfare of modern society .
Based on all the above , Hellenic Navy ’ s goal is to engage in the Maritime Peacetime Vigilance activities across our Area of Responsibility and therefore to contribute in the protection of all the Maritime Critical Infrastructures of our interest .
This is why , our Navy plans and executes its activities in a multi-level environment :
a . Execution of national missions and exercises , by operating our ships and surveillance system , 24 / 7 , 365 days , in order to assure a constant and reliable Maritime Domain Awareness .
b . Participation in operations of international organizations , like NATO , EU and UN . Specifically , as we speak , three of our frigates are operating in international waters , hoisting the Greek flag and offering high quality services of foreign policy to our nation .
Our crews are making us proud for their devotion to serve our Nation ’ s interests and specifically :
HYDRA is operating in the European Operation ASPIDES , in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden , escorting and offering close protection to merchant ships of European interest .
SPETSAI is participating in the maritime part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon , helping in the restoration of international peace and security .
ELLI is operating in the European Naval Force of Mediterranean , Operation IRINI with the primary mission to enforce the UN arms embargo to Libya due to the aftermath of the second Libyan Civil War .
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