Gulf of Aden & Somali Basin
HIGH THREAT Primary threat: hijack. High-risk areas: north-east Somali coast, Somali Basin.
The Gulf of Aden remains one of the world’s most strategically important corridors, linking the Indian Ocean to the Red Sea through the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. Thousands of container ships, tankers, LNG carriers, bulk carriers and general cargo vessels transit each year.
International naval operations had greatly reduced successful hijackings, but the recent re-emergence of piracy has led to multiple successful hijackings. Several Pirate Action Groups are reported to be operating, capable of sustained deep-sea operations from dhows, with attacks from small, fast skiffs.
Recommended posture: BMP Maritime Security, with physical barriers on the most vulnerable access points. Nearest Palaemon hub: UAE (Asia-bound: Singapore).
Incidents in this region
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Latest incidents in this area
The five most recent reported incidents in this region, newest first, from the same data as the live map. Positions approximate; vessel names withheld.
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Palaemon Maritime compiles maritime security information from publicly available and industry-recognised sources, including UKMTO, MSCIO, JMIC, the IMO, MARAD, regional maritime authorities and naval forces, and open-source and industry reporting. Reports may be revised as more information becomes available. This information is for general situational awareness only and is not a substitute for official guidance, voyage planning or risk assessment. Operators should consult the latest official advisories and BMP MS before entering higher-risk regions. Palaemon Maritime accepts no liability for decisions made solely on the basis of this information.