When a ship is attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the first places that can receive an emergency signal is thousands of kilometers away from the strait: At a military base outside Portsmouth, England - the UK Maritime Trade Coordination Center (UKMTO).
This unit is operated by the British Royal Navy, was established more than 25 years ago, initially located in Dubai, as part of Britain's response to the 9/11 terrorist attack in the US. Later, the unit shifted its focus to supporting anti-piracy off the coast of Somalia.
Since the US-Israel conflict with Iran broke out on February 28, this unit has become increasingly important to sailors and transport companies wishing to travel through the Red Sea, Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf, especially the Strait of Hormuz.
The development of this agency reflects the importance that Britain, an island nation heavily dependent on international trade and once possessing the world's strongest navy, has placed on maritime security and freedom of navigation.
With naval experience, this switchboard has enough skills and technology to understand the challenges that global maritime transport is facing, while building its reputation as a reliable, neutral and essential source of information.
When a sea vessel encounters an incident and reports it via satellite phone or email, this agency will notify the coast guard, military or local agencies with the best support capabilities.
The unit also posts information about incidents and ship traffic on the website as well as social networks, thereby becoming a valuable data source for transport companies, policymakers and the public.
Since the beginning of March, UKMTO has recorded 41 incidents in the Gulf region, including 26 direct attacks on ships, causing fires, explosions, flooding or serious incidents. Most of the incidents occurred in the early stages of the conflict.
Currently, as the US-Iran ceasefire is being maintained, incidents often involve ships being called over the radio, sometimes being checked on board, and sometimes crew members being detained.
Despite being linked to the British Navy, UKMTO emphasizes neutrality and believes that providing accurate information based on events is the foundation for creating the organization's prestige with shipping companies.
The team of 18 people at the center near Portsmouth works 24/24, collecting information from all ships regardless of the national flag or the host country's relationship with London.
Cooperation with the center is voluntary, but registering to share data with this unit can help shipping lines reduce insurance costs. UKMTO is also closely coordinating with a similar service operated by France in the Gulf of Guinea, western Africa.
If they receive indirect information about an incident, staff on duty at the center near Portsmouth will try to contact the crew of the ship involved. If they cannot connect, they will try to contact nearby ships to verify the situation.
