Approved projects in the "Maritime security" field
Safe passage is vital for maritime passenger transport and international merchant shipping. Germany has the world’s third largest merchant fleet and handles the majority of global freight transfers by sea. Ports and passenger/freight vessels alike are increasingly exposed to danger in the form of modern piracy and maritime terrorism. The “Maritime security” call for proposals was intended to help put mechanisms in place so that risks can be detected early, security concerns allayed and security established as a firm, preventive part of merchant shipping, safeguarding of critical offshore infrastructures and sea rescue operations.
Completed joint projects:
EMSec: Real-time services for maritime security
Funding codes 13N12740, 13N12741, 13N12743 to 13N12749 and 13N12751
The world’s oceans are heavily frequented – a whole two thirds of freight worldwide is transported via them. This increase in marine traffic is making it difficult to keep track of what is where, causing challenges particularly in the event of storm surge, shipping accidents or criminal activities. Up-to-date, detailed situation reports are necessary if sea rescue services and the authorities are to be able to respond to such hazards even more effectively in future. The research partners on the EMSec project therefore developed an IT system to compile situation reports drawing on sources such as satellites and aircraft-based services. The intention was to help the authorities detect potential hazards early on and optimise prevention measures even further.
More information (only available in German)
MAR-SIMNET: Maritime simulator network
Funding codes 13N13011 to 13N13014
When an incident happens at sea, the coordination of the various rescue teams plays a central role. The sea rescue command has to organise the deployment of a range of sea rescue vessels, a wide variety of authorities, firefighting units and rescue helicopters. Drills to practise such scenarios in real-life conditions are rarely conducted as they are enormously expensive. The MAR-SIMNET project was developing a simulator network that will be the first to facilitate simultaneous training for all teams involved in emergency operations in one joint scenario.
More information (only available in German)
OWISS: Offshore wind energy – Protection and security
Funding codes 13N13446 to 13N13450
Germany’s energy revolution will see offshore wind farms becoming a major contributor to the country’s energy production. If the energy supply is to remain stable in the future too, disruptions to these farms’ operation need to be minimised. The partners on the OWISS joint project were working on a system of preventive and reactive measures intended to prevent disruptions due to interference in operation, accidents and natural disasters. The system was to be made available to operators of offshore wind farms, the police forces responsible for them and rescue organisations, with the aim of helping to ensure that use of renewables can be expanded safely.
OWISS project outline (only available in German)
SIREVA: Passenger security in rescue and evacuation from vessels
Funding codes 13N12952 to 13N12960
Cruises are constantly gaining in popularity. Indeed, the annual passenger volume worldwide has risen to around 20 million. With the cruise ships becoming ever larger, the challenges involved in evacuating a vessel in the event of an accident are significant. The SIREVA project team were working on innovative strategies and proposals for technical solutions to help evacuate all passengers quickly and safely. Particular consideration is being given to people with reduced mobility. Research is also being carried out on acceptance and legal aspects.
More information (only available in German)