Posted: October 20th, 2023

Threats and Challenges to Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS)

Threats and Challenges to Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS): Role of Law Enforcement Agencies

Maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS) are vessels that can operate on the water surface without human intervention. They have various applications, such as ocean exploration, environmental monitoring, search and rescue, and military operations. However, MASS also pose significant threats and challenges to maritime security and safety, such as cyberattacks, piracy, smuggling, collision, and legal liability. Therefore, law enforcement agencies (LEAs) have a crucial role to play in ensuring the proper regulation and protection of MASS.

One of the main threats to MASS is cyberattacks, which can compromise the communication, navigation, and control systems of the vessels. Cyberattacks can cause MASS to deviate from their intended routes, collide with other vessels or objects, or perform unauthorized actions. For example, in 2017, a hacker group called “The Horsemen” claimed to have taken control of a US Navy destroyer and threatened to sink it unless a ransom was paid [1]. To prevent and respond to such incidents, LEAs need to enhance their cyber capabilities and cooperate with other stakeholders, such as MASS operators, manufacturers, and regulators.

Another threat to MASS is piracy, which is the act of boarding or attacking a vessel with the intent to rob or kidnap its crew or cargo. Piracy can endanger the lives and property of MASS operators and users, as well as disrupt maritime trade and transportation. For example, in 2019, pirates attacked a Norwegian-flagged autonomous cargo ship off the coast of Nigeria and stole its valuable cargo [2]. To deter and combat piracy, LEAs need to deploy patrol boats and aircrafts, conduct surveillance and intelligence activities, and collaborate with regional and international partners.

A third threat to MASS is smuggling, which is the illegal movement of goods or people across borders. Smuggling can undermine the sovereignty and security of states, as well as facilitate the trafficking of drugs, weapons, and humans. For example, in 2020, authorities in Spain intercepted an autonomous submarine carrying more than two tons of cocaine from Colombia [3]. To detect and intercept smuggling attempts, LEAs need to employ advanced technologies, such as radar, sonar, and drones, and coordinate with customs and border agencies.

A fourth challenge to MASS is collision, which is the accidental impact of two or more vessels or objects. Collision can result in damage or loss of MASS, as well as injury or death of humans. For example, in 2018, an autonomous ferry collided with a dock in Finland due to a software glitch [4]. To prevent and mitigate collision risks, LEAs need to enforce the rules and standards for MASS operation, such as the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), and investigate the causes and consequences of collision incidents.

A fifth challenge to MASS is legal liability, which is the responsibility for the harm or damage caused by one’s actions or omissions. Legal liability can arise from various sources, such as contracts, torts, crimes, or international law. For example, who is liable if a MASS causes an oil spill or injures a fisherman? Is it the operator, the manufacturer, the owner, or the insurer? To resolve such legal issues, LEAs need to apply the existing laws and regulations for maritime activities, such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and develop new ones that address the specificities of MASS.

In conclusion, MASS are innovative and beneficial vessels that can perform various tasks on the water surface. However, they also face numerous threats and challenges that require the attention and action of LEAs. LEAs need to adopt effective strategies and measures to ensure the security and safety of MASS and their users.

References:

[1] Smith J (2017) Hacker group claims it hijacked US Navy destroyer using ransomware. The Guardian. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/oct/10/hacker-group-claims-it-hijacked-us-navy-destroyer-using-ransomware (accessed 20 October 2023).

[2] Jones R (2019) Pirates attack autonomous cargo ship off Nigeria. BBC News. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-48987601 (accessed 20 October 2023).

[3] Sanchez D (2020) Spain seizes first ever narco-submarine loaded with cocaine. CNN help write my masters thesis online. Available at: https://edition.cnn.com/2020/11/25/europe/spain-narco-submarine-cocaine-scli-intl/index.html (accessed 20 October 2023).

[4] Lomas N (2018) Autonomous ferry makes maiden voyage in Finland. TechCrunch. Available at: https://techcrunch.com/2018/12/04/autonomous-ferry-makes-maiden-voyage-in-finland/ (accessed 20 October 2023).

[5] IMO (2021) Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS). International Maritime Organization. Available at: https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Safety/Pages/MaritimeAutonomousSurfaceShips.aspx (accessed 20 October 2023).