Global News Watch Archives - Page 9 of 21 - Americans for a Stronger Navy

February 1, 2024February 1, 2024

Strengthening Our Navy: A Path to Security and Stability

Opinion Piece

Dear Members and Friends of StrongerNavy.org,

In light of recent developments and insightful analyses, such as the compelling opinion piece by Seth Cropsey, it has become increasingly clear that the path to securing our national interests and ensuring global stability heavily relies on the strength and capability of our Navy.

As the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I/we stand firmly with the views expressed by Cropsey, particularly regarding the critical need for a coherent strategy in the Middle East and the indispensable role of a formidable naval force in the eastern Mediterranean, the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, and the Persian Gulf.

The Indispensable Role of Naval Power

Naval power has long been the cornerstone of our national defense and international influence. Our navy has been protecting free trade since the beginning of the republic during wars against the Barbary pirates, a quasi-state actor not unlike the Houthis attempting to close the Red Sea to commerce in the present day. Our Navy not only secures vital trade routes that underpin the global economy but also serves as a potent deterrent against adversaries who might seek to destabilize regions critical to our interests. The recent events in the Middle East, as highlighted by Cropsey, underscore the urgency of bolstering our naval capabilities to respond effectively to emerging threats and maintain a balance of power that favors peace and stability.

A Coherent Strategy for the Middle East

The challenges we face in the Middle East are complex and multifaceted. They require not just military might but a comprehensive strategy that encompasses diplomatic efforts, alliances, and a deep understanding of the regional dynamics. Cropsey’s call for a coherent approach to the region resonates with our advocacy for a strategy that integrates naval strength with broader diplomatic initiatives, ensuring a more stable and secure environment conducive to our interests.

The Need for Decisive Leadership and Investment

Our current predicament in the Middle East, characterized by a lack of clarity and commitment, highlights the necessity for decisive leadership and a unified national approach towards defense and foreign policy. Cropsey’s critique of the present administration’s handling of the situation serves as a reminder of the consequences of inaction and indecision. As such, we advocate for significant investment in our Navy, not only to modernize our fleet but to expand our capabilities to meet the demands of an increasingly complex global landscape. The current fleet of less than 300 ships is not enough to sustain deployed forces in the Indo-Pacific, Mediterranean Sea, and the Persian Gulf and Red Sea. The nation needs that larger and more capable fleet to both defend key chokepoints like the Bab al Mandeb strait, and also ensure that ships and sailors are not extended on deployment, as the Ford carrier strike group had to be in order to meet the mission in the Eastern Mediterranean.

A Unified Call to Action

In agreement with Cropsey, we at StrongerNavy.org call upon our members, friends, and policymakers to recognize the urgency of the situation. It is imperative that we support policies and initiatives that strengthen our Navy and ensure it remains capable of protecting our freedoms, securing our interests, and contributing to global stability.

Let us unite in our commitment to a stronger Navy, one that is fully equipped to navigate the challenges of the 21st century and beyond. Our security, our prosperity, and our place in the world depend on it.

Together, we can forge a future that upholds the principles of freedom, peace, and stability that our great nation stands for.

Sincerely Bill Cullifer, Founder- Americans for a Stronger Navy

January 30, 2024January 30, 2024

Navigating Troubled Waters: Understanding the Strategic Implications of Recent Red Sea Incidents:

Helicopters from the aircraft carrier Eisenhower engaged four Houthi small boats on Dec. 31, eliminating three and killing the boats’ crews. (MC2 Keith Nowak/Navy)

Introduction:

Welcome back to our ongoing discussion on the evolving landscape of global naval affairs. In this installment, we build upon our previous explorations — from the threats posed by Houthi missiles and drones in the Red Sea, affecting both global trade and the U.S. Navy’s operations (Houthi Missiles and Drones Threaten Red Sea Shipping), to the unique challenges the U.S. Navy faces in the strategically critical Red Sea and Suez Canal regions (How the US Navy Is Facing New Challenges in the Red Sea and the Suez Canal). We have also previously examined the role of ships like USS Carney in maintaining regional stability (USS Carney Defends Regional Stability in the Red Sea), and delved into understanding America’s warfighting navy priorities (Understanding America’s Warfighting Navy Priorities). Today, we turn our attention to the recent incident in the Red Sea involving the attack on the Zografia ship, to further understand its implications for U.S. naval operations and global maritime security.

The Red Sea Incident: A Brief Overview:

On January 16, 2024, the Red Sea bore witness to a troubling event. Yemen’s Houthi group claimed responsibility for attacking the Zografia ship, a vessel reportedly heading to Israel. This attack prompted a swift response from U.S.-U.K. warships, signaling the heightened tensions in one of the world’s most crucial shipping lanes. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the volatile nature of maritime geopolitics.

The Rising Threats in Naval Warfare:

The U.S. Navy faces an array of modern threats, including armed drones, sophisticated cruise missiles, and anti-ship ballistic missiles. These encounters in the Red Sea are not just isolated incidents; they offer invaluable data and experience, shaping the U.S. Navy’s strategy, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region where maritime tensions continue to rise.

China’s Military Buildup: A Major Concern:

China’s People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force represents a formidable challenge to U.S. forces in the Pacific. With the capability to launch thousands of missiles over vast areas, the U.S. could potentially face overwhelming odds in intercepting mass missile attacks. This threat necessitates a reevaluation and strengthening of American defensive strategies in the region.

Adapting to Modern Warfare:

In response to these emerging threats, the U.S. Navy is exploring innovative defense tactics. Concealing the movement of forces, misdirecting enemy reconnaissance, and blinding surveillance systems are crucial for defending against mass missile salvos.

The U.S. Navy’s Role in Global Commerce Protection:

The U.S. Navy’s responsibility extends beyond mere military engagement; it is vital for ensuring the uninterrupted flow of global commerce. As Brad Bowman of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies highlights, America’s status as a maritime and trading power is intrinsically linked to the free movement of maritime commerce. This role is essential for maintaining American prosperity and security.

Conclusion:

The attack on the Zografia ship in the Red Sea is a clear indicator of the evolving nature of naval warfare and the complex challenges faced by the U.S. Navy. It underscores the importance of adapting to new threats while continuing to protect global maritime commerce. As we navigate these troubled waters, the need for vigilance and strategic innovation in naval defense has never been more critical.

January 26, 2024January 28, 2024

Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power – Advancing Naval Superiority in the Age of Autonomous Warfare and Global Rivalry

Today, we are privileged to be joined by Bryan Clark, a Senior Fellow and Director of the Center for Defense Concepts and Technology at the Hudson Institute.

My co-host Dale and I have previously laid the groundwork by introducing key themes and objectives of our series, including an in-depth conversation with Dr. Steven Wills, a respected naval historian and former U.S. Naval officer, in our episode ‘Developing and Implementing Effective U.S. Navy Strategies’ and Dr. Sam Tangredi, the esteemed Leidos Chair of Future Warfare Studies and Director of the Institute for Future Warfare Studies at the U.S. Naval War College. and Dr. Bruce Jones, Senior Fellow – Foreign Policy, Center for East Asia Policy Studies, Strobe Talbott Center for Security, Strategy, and Technology, Brookings Institution. – Maritime Power Through History and Future – January 4, 2025. Dr. Scott Savitz, a renowned senior engineer at the RAND Corporation.

Mr. Clark is a renowned expert in naval operations, electronic warfare, autonomous systems, military competitions, and wargaming. His extensive background includes distinguished service as a former U.S. Navy officer, analyst, and consultant.

Bryan Clark’s contributions to the field of naval warfare and strategy are substantial, demonstrated through his insightful reports and articles, including notable works like “Unalone, Unafraid: A Plan for Integrating Uncrewed and Other Emerging Technologies into U.S. Military Forces”.

In this session, Mr. Clark will share his invaluable perspectives on the current and future challenges and opportunities facing the U.S. Navy in the 21st century.

With a keen focus on the escalating competition and rivalry from global adversaries such as China, Russia, and Iran, he will discuss strategies for the U.S. Navy to maintain and enhance its edge in terms of size, capability, readiness, innovation, and technology.

Additionally, Mr. Clark will address the crucial aspect of strengthening cooperation and coordination with allies and partners, particularly in strategically significant regions like the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe. His insights will shed light on the vital role of the U.S. Navy in ensuring the freedom and security of the seas and the international order.

January 16, 2024

Strengthening Our Seas: The Vital Role of the U.S. Navy in Global Maritime Security

Photo shows the dhow transporting Iranian weapons to Houthi forces in Yemen. Photo: U.S. Central Command

A Perspective for Americans for a Stronger Navy

In the ever-evolving landscape of global maritime security, the U.S. Navy remains a pivotal force in maintaining the safety and order of international waters. The recent U.S. Navy operation, reported by Fox News offers a compelling example of this critical role.

A Decisive Operation in the Arabian Sea

On January 11, 2024, U.S. Navy SEALs aboard the USS LEWIS B PULLER, supported by helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), executed a complex night-time boarding of a dhow near the coast of Somalia. This operation, as detailed by news outlets resulted in the seizure of Iranian-made ballistic and cruise missile components intended for Houthi forces in Yemen. This significant interdiction not only disrupts the plans of those seeking to destabilize the region but also safeguards innocent mariners and vital shipping lanes.

The High Stakes of Maritime Security

The seized weapons, which include propulsion, guidance, and warheads for medium-range ballistic missiles and anti-ship cruise missiles, have been employed by the Houthis in their attacks against international merchant ships in the Red Sea. This seizure marks the first of its kind since the beginning of Houthi attacks against merchant ships in November 2023 and the first seizure of Iranian-manufactured advanced missile components by the U.S. Navy since November 2019. This operation underlines the Navy’s crucial role in enforcing international law and UN Security Resolution 2216.

The Cost of Vigilance

Tragically, this operation also involved the loss of two brave U.S. Navy SEALs, as reported by U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM). Their sacrifice is a stark reminder of the risks our service members face in securing our seas and the importance of supporting our naval forces.

The Broader Context: Iran’s Involvement

As news reports, the operation sheds light on Iran’s continued shipment of advanced lethal aid to the Houthis, a clear violation of U.N. Security Resolution 2216 and international law. This situation highlights the broader geopolitical challenges in the region and the need for a strong naval presence to counter such destabilizing activities.

Moving Forward

As members and friends of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we must advocate for a well-equipped and robust naval force. The recent operations by the USS LEWIS B PULLER are a testament to the Navy’s commitment to global maritime security. Let us continue to support our Navy in its crucial mission to maintain peace and stability on the high seas.

January 13, 2024January 13, 2024

U.S. and U.K. Coordinate Strikes Against Houthi Targets in Yemen

A combat-loaded F/A-18C taxis to the catapult aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower.

In a significant escalation of military action, the U.S. Navy, in coordination with the U.K., has conducted a series of targeted strikes against Houthi militants in Yemen. This action, reported by Heather Mongilio of USNI News, comes as a direct response to the Houthis’ continued aggression against commercial shipping in the Middle East.

Strikes Across Air, Surface, and Subsurface:

The offensive involved a diverse array of military assets:

Air Force strike fighters from a base in the Middle East and Super Hornets from USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) participated.
Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles were launched from naval ships in the Red Sea and potentially from the Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Florida (SSGN-728).
The strike occurred around 2:30 a.m. local time, closely following a Houthi missile attack in the Gulf of Aden.

U.K.’s Involvement:

U.K. Secretary of State for Defence Grant Shapps confirmed on social media that four Royal Air Force Typhoon FGR4s conducted precision strikes on two key Houthi military targets in Bani and Abbs, Yemen. These sites were instrumental in the Houthis’ drone and missile operations.

U.S. Strike Details:

The U.S. targeted 60 locations, aiming at munition depots, command nodes, and systems critical to the Houthis’ drone and missile capabilities. This was part of a concerted effort to degrade their ability to threaten maritime security.

International Support:

The operation was supported by Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands, highlighting a unified stance against threats to international navigation.

No Immediate Houthi Response:

As of the evening of January 12, there has been no reported retaliation from the Houthis. The strikes are separate from Operation Prosperity Guardian, which focuses on defending commercial shipping in the Red Sea.

U.S. Defense Secretary’s Statement:

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin emphasized that these actions are meant to disrupt the Houthis’ ability to jeopardize global trade and mariner safety. He stated, “Today’s coalition action sends a clear message to the Houthis that they will bear further costs if they do not end their illegal attacks.”

Context of the Attacks:

The Houthis have been launching attacks since October 19, 2023, with the U.S. and allies sending a clear warning to cease such actions. Despite these warnings, the Houthis have continued their attacks, including on U.S. and coalition military vessels.

U.K. Prime Minister’s Statement:

U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemned the Houthi actions as destabilizing and dangerous, reiterating the U.K.’s commitment to freedom of navigation and the free flow of trade.

Conclusion:

This coordinated response by the U.S. and U.K. signifies a strong stance against threats to international shipping and stability in the region. The situation remains dynamic, and further developments will be closely monitored and reported.

January 13, 2024January 13, 2024

Important Update: US and UK Respond to Houthi Threats in Yemen

Dear Members and Friends of Americans for a Stronger Navy,

Introduction: We bring to your attention a significant development in maritime security that directly impacts our advocacy for a robust naval defense. As reported by Luis Martinez and Morgan Winsor on ABC News (January 12, 2024), the US and UK have launched large-scale retaliatory strikes against Iran-backed Houthi militants in Yemen.

Background of the Conflict: For months, the Houthi militants, backed by Iran, have endangered commercial shipping in the Red Sea with repeated attacks. In a decisive response, the US military, supported by the UK and other allies, executed airstrikes targeting multiple Houthi positions in Yemen.

Details of the Retaliatory Strikes: These extensive airstrikes involved fighter jets and Tomahawk cruise missiles from Navy surface ships and the USS Florida, an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine. This action reflects a concerted effort by the US and UK to safeguard vital maritime routes.

Leadership Statements: President Joe Biden described these strikes as a “defensive action,” emphasizing their necessity in protecting international maritime vessels and maintaining freedom of navigation. Similarly, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin affirmed the US’s right to self-defense and readiness for further protective actions if needed.

Takeaways:

The strikes underscore the critical role of naval power in ensuring global maritime security.
This action demonstrates the US’s commitment to defending international waterways against threats.
It highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing regional security challenges.

Notable quotes

President Biden: “These strikes are in direct response to unprecedented Houthi attacks… jeopardizing trade, and threatening freedom of navigation.”

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin: “The United States maintains its right to self-defense and, if necessary, we will take follow-on actions to protect U.S. forces.”

Conclusion: These developments affirm the need for a strong and responsive naval force, capable of protecting national interests and maintaining global maritime security. We, at Americans for a Stronger Navy, remain dedicated to advocating for robust naval defense policies that ensure the safety and stability of international waters.

January 11, 2024January 11, 2024

Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power – ‘AI on the High Seas: Shaping the Future of Naval Warfare and Seapower’

Welcome to ‘Charting the Course: Navigating the Future of American Naval Power’.

Today, we’re thrilled to have Dr. Sam Tangredi, the esteemed Leidos Chair of Future Warfare Studies and Director of the Institute for Future Warfare Studies at the U.S. Naval War College.

Dr. Tangredi, a former U.S. Navy captain and strategist, brings a wealth of experience and insight.

He holds a Ph.D. in international relations from the University of Southern California and is an award-winning author, having penned significant works such as “AI at War: How Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning Are Changing Naval Warfare”, and “Anti-Access Warfare: Countering A2/AD Strategies”.

His contributions to naval literature have earned him the U.S. Naval Institute’s Arleigh Burke Prize and the U.S. Navy League’s Alfred Thayer Mahan Award.

In this session, Dr. Tangredi will illuminate the profound impact and implications of emerging technologies on the future of naval warfare and seapower.

He will delve into the roles of artificial intelligence, big data, and machine learning, guiding us through the complex landscape of modern naval strategies and challenges.

January 7, 2024

A Sea of Tensions: Understanding the South China Sea Dispute and America’s Naval Imperative

Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) sets anchors in Manila, Philippines. USS Carl Vinson is in the Philippines for a port visit, supporting operational readiness and regional partnerships.

To Members and Friends,

In these rapidly evolving times, the strategic landscape of the South China Sea is more critical than ever to our national security and maritime interests. Recent events in this region, coupled with the burgeoning naval capabilities of our potential adversaries, underline the urgency of our mission at “Americans for a Stronger Navy.”

Rising Tensions in the South China Sea

The South China Sea, a hub of global maritime traffic and rich in resources, has become a focal point for international power dynamics. The U.S. and China have conducted significant military exercises in these waters, signaling the area’s strategic importance. This tense atmosphere was further amplified by a recent collision involving Philippine and Chinese vessels near a disputed reef, highlighting the area’s volatility.

China’s Escalating Naval Dominance

As reported in the Jan. 2 issue of the Wall Street Journal by Seth G. Jones of CSIS, the Chinese navy’s expansion is a cause for concern. Not limited to the sheer number of ships, China’s ominous growth in shipbuilding capacity is particularly alarming. With a staggering capacity of 23 million tons, one Chinese shipyard on Changxing Island alone surpasses the combined capacity of all U.S. shipyards. This disparity in shipbuilding capabilities is a stark reminder of the challenges we face in maintaining our naval strength and readiness.

Global Defense Spending: A Comparative Analysis

In the shadow of these developments, nations like Japan have significantly increased their defense budgets in response to Chinese expansionism.

Japan’s defense allocation now stands at USD 47.7 billion, a 16.5% increase. However, when compared to China’s defense expenditure of USD 292 billion in 2022 (as reported by SIPRI), the imbalance becomes evident.

The United States, with a defense budget of $877 billion, continues to lead in absolute terms, but when viewed as a percentage of GDP, our current spending of 3% is notably lower than historical highs during previous administrations.

Why Should America Care

The implications of these developments extend far beyond the territorial disputes of the South China Sea. They touch upon fundamental aspects of international law, freedom of navigation, and the global balance of power. The United States, with its longstanding commitment to these principles, must view the situation in the South China Sea as a barometer for broader geopolitical shifts.

Conclusion

In light of Seth G. Jones’ report and the ongoing developments in the South China Sea, it’s evident that our mission is more pertinent than ever. The gap in shipbuilding capacity, coupled with the varying levels of defense expenditure globally, highlights the need for a robust and forward-looking U.S. naval strategy. We must advocate for the resources and policies necessary to ensure that our Navy remains capable of meeting these emerging challenges.

As we face these uncertain times, your support and engagement with “Americans for a Stronger Navy” are invaluable. Together, we stand vigilant, advocating for a Navy that is not only strong today but is prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.

For Freedom and Security,
Americans for a Stronger Navy

January 5, 2024January 5, 2024

Houthi Missiles and Drones Threaten Red Sea Shipping, Endangering Global Trade and the US Navy

Houthi Missiles and Drones Threaten Red Sea Shipping, Endangering Global Trade and the US Navy

Recent Attack:

On December 26, 2023, three commercial ships in the Red Sea were struck by ballistic missiles fired from Houthi-controlled Yemen. The US Navy responded by shooting down three drones launched by the Iranian-backed rebel group. This latest attack highlights the ongoing threat posed by the Houthis to this vital shipping lane, which carries about 10% of the world’s trade and 5% of its oil.

The Houthi Threat:

Houthi fighter jet flying over the Red Sea

The Houthis are a Shia Muslim minority group in Yemen that has been fighting the internationally recognized government since 2014, with support from Iran. They control large parts of the country, including the capital Sanaa and the port of Hodeidah. They have also launched hundreds of drone and missile attacks on Saudi Arabia, which leads a coalition of Arab states supporting the Yemeni government.

Strategic Importance of the Red Sea:

map of the Red Sea with shipping lanes highlighted

The Red Sea is a critical waterway connecting the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean. It is used by ships from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, carrying essential goods like oil, gas, food, and weapons. The Bab al-Mandab Strait, a narrow chokepoint at the southern entrance to the Red Sea, is only 18 miles wide at its narrowest point. This strategic location makes the Red Sea crucial for the US Navy, which uses it to access the Arabian Sea and the Persian Gulf, where it maintains a strong presence to counter Iran and protect its allies.

Houthi Justifications and Weapons:

The Houthis claim their attacks on ships are in response to the Saudi-led blockade of Yemen, which has caused a devastating humanitarian crisis. They also claim to target vessels linked to Israel, in solidarity with the Palestinians. However, these claims lack evidence, and the Houthis have shown disregard for the civilian and commercial nature of the ships they attack.

The Houthis use sophisticated weapons, including anti-ship cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and explosive-laden drones, believed to be supplied by Iran.

US Navy Response and Challenges:

The US Navy monitors and responds to Houthi attacks to ensure freedom of navigation and maritime security. It has deployed warships like the USS Eisenhower aircraft carrier and destroyers to the Red Sea, intercepting and shooting down Houthi missiles and drones. The Navy also launched a global patrol mission in December 2023 to protect ships from the Houthi threat and collaborates with allies like the UK, France, and Japan.

However, the Navy faces challenges:

Balancing resources with other regional threats.
Operating in a complex and congested environment.
Respecting international law and the sovereignty of other countries.

Implications and Consequences:

The Houthi attacks have significant implications:

Growing Iranian influence and aggression in the region.
Increased sophistication and capability of the Houthis.
Vulnerability of the Red Sea as a strategic waterway and trade route.
Potential for economic and environmental damage.
Escalation of conflict and instability in the region.
Need for the US Navy to maintain its presence and cooperate with allies.

Why America Should Care:

The Houthi attacks matter to America because they:

Affect national security and economic prosperity.
Reflect values like freedom, democracy, and human rights.
Represent an opportunity to promote peace and stability in the region.

Conclusion:

The Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea pose a serious threat to global trade and the US Navy. The US Navy is responding to these attacks but faces challenges. America should care about this issue due to its potential impact on national security, economic prosperity, and global values.

January 5, 2024

Revealed Seas: How Hidden Maritime Activities Impact Naval Strategy and Ocean Security

Introduction

In the vast expanse of our oceans, a groundbreaking discovery has been made, shedding light on what has been hidden in plain sight. A recent study by Global Fishing Watch, backed by Google, has unveiled an astonishing level of previously untracked human activity at sea, posing significant implications for maritime policy, environmental conservation, and national security.

Unveiling the Unseen

Researchers utilized AI and satellite data to reveal that a staggering 72 to 76 percent of the world’s industrial fishing vessels, along with a significant portion of transport and energy vessel activity, were not being tracked by public systems. This study, involving a massive analysis of 2 million gigabytes of satellite imagery across six continents, highlights the collaboration among Global Fishing Watch, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Duke University, UC Santa Barbara, and SkyTruth. The findings also showed a large presence of ‘dark fleets’ in marine protected areas and in countries previously believed to have minimal vessel activity.

Why This Matters

The discovery of such a high number of ‘dark vessels’ raises critical concerns about overfishing, illegal activities, and the environmental impact of unregulated maritime operations. The study revealed a stark discrepancy in fishing activity between Asia and Europe, illustrating the scale of unmonitored fishing activities and the need for improved surveillance and tracking systems

Implications for the Navy

This revelation has several key implications for naval operations:

Enhanced Surveillance and Security: Adapting surveillance techniques to effectively monitor these vessels is crucial for maritime security.
Maritime Domain Awareness: The data aids in understanding traffic patterns and deploying naval resources more effectively.
Environmental Protection Role: The Navy could enforce environmental regulations at sea.
International Collaboration: The findings highlight the importance of global cooperation in maritime surveillance.
Technological Advancements: This could inspire the use of similar AI and satellite imagery technologies in naval operations.

Should Americans Care?

Absolutely. The security and sustainability of our oceans have direct impacts on national security, economic stability, and environmental health. The study’s technology can be used to combat climate change, improving estimates of greenhouse gas emissions at sea and guiding wind development.

Conclusion

The open data and technology used in the study can help governments, researchers, and civil society to identify hotspots of potentially illegal activity, determine where industrial fishing vessels may be encroaching on artisanal fishing grounds, or simply better understand vessel traffic in their waters. Supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, National Geographic Pristine Seas, Oceankind, and Google, this study marks the beginning of a new era in ocean management and transparency.

This study is a wake-up call to the hidden realities of our oceans and a call to action for enhanced global maritime governance and technological advancements in ocean monitoring.