Policy paper

National strategy for maritime security

The national strategy for maritime security (NSMS) outlines the UK’s approach to delivering maritime security at home and internationally.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Documents

The UK national strategy for maritime security (web-optimised PDF)

The UK national strategy for maritime security (print-ready PDF)

Details

The national strategy for maritime security (NSMS) outlines the UK’s approach to delivering maritime security at home and internationally by explaining how we organise and use our extensive national capabilities to identify, assess and address maritime security challenges. The strategy outlines 5 objectives:

  • to promote a secure international maritime domain and uphold international maritime norms
  • to develop the maritime governance capacity and capabilities of states in areas of strategic maritime importance
  • to protect the UK and the Overseas Territories, their citizens and economies by supporting the safety and security of ports and offshore installations and Red Ensign Group (REG) flagged passenger and cargo ships
  • to assure the security of vital maritime trade and energy transportation routes within the UK Marine Area, regionally and internationally
  • to protect the resources and population of the UK and the Overseas Territories from illegal and dangerous activity, including serious organised crime and terrorism
Published 13 May 2014