- Maersk has deployed two U.S.-flagged container ships, Maersk Sentosa and Maersk Kensington, through the Red Sea, transporting goods for the U.S. military and government.
- This decision comes amid heightened security concerns in the Bab al-Mandab Strait near Yemen, leading major shipping lines to redirect vessels around Africa.
- The U.S.-flagged ships, part of Maersk Line Limited, utilize security measures such as turning off their AIS tracking systems during the passage through the strait.
Maersk, a major Danish shipping company, has successfully dispatched two U.S.-flagged container ships, Maersk Sentosa and Maersk Kensington, through the Red Sea, carrying goods for the U.S. military and government. This strategic move comes as Maersk and other shipping giants divert vessels away from the Bab al-Mandab Strait due to security concerns arising from attacks by Iranian-backed Houthi militants in the region. The U.S.-flagged vessels, part of Maersk Line Limited, sailed from Salalah in Oman through the Bab al-Mandab Strait, taking precautions such as turning off AIS tracking systems to enhance security and avoid detection.
Security Measures Amidst Heightened Risks
The Bab al-Mandab Strait, near Yemen, has witnessed heightened security risks, leading major shipping lines to opt for longer routes around Africa to safeguard vessels from Houthi attacks. Maersk Sentosa and Kensington, with capacities of 6,500 and 6,200 twenty-foot containers, respectively, are crucial components of Maersk Line Limited, a U.S. subsidiary of the Danish parent company. This subsidiary fleet, consisting of 20 smaller container vessels, plays a pivotal role in transporting goods for various U.S. agencies, including the Department of Defense, State Department, and USAID.
Strategic Moves and Collaboration with U.S. Navy Assets
To mitigate risks, both Maersk vessels passed through the Bab al-Mandab Strait with their AIS tracking systems turned off. The Maersk Kensington reappeared at 0818 GMT on Tuesday, and the Maersk Sentosa activated AIS at 2211 GMT on Monday, according to ship-tracking data. In response to the security challenges, Maersk highlighted that the few vessels making the crossing are operating in close proximity to U.S. Navy assets, enhancing the safety of crews and cargo. The strategic coordination with the U.S. Navy reflects a collaborative effort to ensure secure passages for commercial shipping in the Red Sea.
International Response to Houthi Militant Attacks
The U.S. and Britain have taken decisive action against Houthi military targets in Yemen, conducting numerous air strikes in retaliation for Houthi attacks on shipping. The establishment of a U.S.-led coalition last month underscores the international commitment to safeguarding commercial traffic in the Red Sea amidst growing security concerns. Maersk’s navigation through this challenging environment signifies a commitment to ensuring the continuity of shipping operations while effectively managing security risks.
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Source: Reuters
