The international community has increasingly moved beyond a sole focus on Mogadishu’s central government and has expanded its engagement with the country’s autonomous state that have demonstrated institutional capacity, stability and responsibility in addressing security challenges.
For nearly two decades, the international community has cooperated with Puntland authorities in combating piracy and terrorism. This cooperation was strategic position along one of the most important maritime corridors in the Horn of Africa and its role in addressing transnational security threats.
Against this background, the international community is now seeking to further strengthen the maritime capabilities of the Puntland Maritime Police Force. An agreement is being finalised under which Puntland would receive military vessels and modern drone systems to enhance its maritime surveillance and security capabilities.
The Puntland Maritime Police Force is therefore expected to receive modern maritime vessels and unmanned aerial systems in the near future.
According to officials, the vessels would be capable of transporting approximately 40 to 60 personnel and supporting extended maritime operations when fully equipped. Each of the vessels would significantly enhance Puntland’s ability to conduct patrols, surveillance, personnel deployment and maritime security operations along its coastline.
The proposed unmanned aircraft are reportedly capable of operating at distances of up to approximately 500 kilometres, using satellite communications and providing both surveillance and strike capabilities. Also they capable of carrying up to four mortar rounds.
Plus the arrangement would involve as many as three maritime vessels and two unmanned aircraft.
In preparation for these developments, the Puntland Maritime Police Force has established a specialised unit capable of operating drones and employing modern surveillance and communications technologies.
Puntland’s Five Major Maritime Security Challenges
Puntland faces five principal maritime security challenges:
- Piracy: preventing the resurgence of piracy and protecting commercial shipping and maritime infrastructure.
- Illegal and destructive fishing: combating illegal fishing activities and protecting Puntland’s marine resources.
- Foreign interference and competing interests: addressing activities by external powers that may conflict with Puntland’s maritime and economic interests.
- Illegal arms trafficking: preventing the movement of weapons through Puntland’s maritime territory.
- Terrorist infiltration and movement: preventing terrorist organisations and their networks from exploiting maritime routes for transportation, logistics or infiltration.
Turkey and its growing influence in parts of Somalia save Somalia’s unfinished political settlement can pose a threat to Puntland’s aspirations on maintaining peace and stability in its coastal areas. However, thus far no direct threats have been reported.
JQ