Abandon ship — growing use of uncrewed vessels threatens Africa maritime security

The utilisation of maritime drones for offensive operations in the Black and Red Seas signals a shift in naval warfare. 

The recent Houthi attempt in the Red Sea, employing uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), underscores the evolving landscape of maritime security. While USVs have been traditionally used for surveillance and monitoring, their emergence in combat operations raises concerns over African countries' preparedness to counter such threats. Several factors drive the proliferation of USVs. Their affordability compared to conventional naval assets, simplicity in manufacturing, and operational flexibility make them attractive options for both conventional navies and non-state actors. Major arms-manufacturing countries like the United Kingdom, France, and China are actively developing advanced naval drone technology, while instances like the intercepted USV components bound for Yemen highlight Iran's role in supplying such capabilities to non-state groups.

The potential use of USVs by criminal networks, particularly in drug trafficking and smuggling operations targeting Africa, poses additional challenges for maritime security. While the current cost of USVs may deter widespread adoption by criminal networks, evolving technology and accessibility may change this landscape in the future. Addressing the emerging threat of USVs requires proactive measures, including capacity-building for maritime law enforcement, legislative reforms, and the incorporation of uncrewed systems into naval operations. Initiatives like the US Navy's task force on uncrewed systems aim to improve maritime security and safety in regions like the Western Indian Ocean and Red Sea, offering valuable lessons for African navies to enhance their capabilities in combating maritime crimes.

Source: MSN