The National ISPS Coordination Authority continuously monitors the maritime security situation in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.
On December 18, 2023, the National ISPS Coordination Authority issued an OXXO message concerning the implementation of ISPS MARSEC 3, which was established on March 9, 2022, for the northwestern Black Sea, Crimea, and the Sea of Azov north of the line: 45°08N-29°48E - 44°00N-34°00E - 44°43N-37°27E.
The security risk for civilian maritime traffic in these areas remains. Therefore, the National ISPS Coordination Authority maintains MARSEC 3 for these areas.
MARSEC 3 (Ukrainian ports) from February 28, 2022, remains in effect. The rest of the Black Sea remains at MARSEC 1 until further notice.
Be aware of potential GPS jamming, AIS spoofing, communication disruptions, and cyber attacks in the area. Harassment and diversion of maritime traffic in the area cannot be ruled out. Additionally, Turkish and Romanian authorities have reported incidents involving drifting mines in the southwestern Black Sea. Civilian maritime traffic in the southern and southwestern Black Sea is advised to maintain an effective lookout and avoid floating objects.
Ensure to monitor all navigation warnings issued by Ukrainian authorities on NAVTEX and by the NATO Shipping Centre, https://shipping.nato.int/nsc, including warnings from the Spanish Navy's NAVAREA.
It is recommended to keep your AIS turned on at all times and clearly state your intentions on VHF. Follow any instructions given by military forces if challenged.
If Danish vessels are in immediate danger, activate the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS), send a distress message via the Digital Selective Calling system (DSC), and make a 'Mayday' call on VHF channel 16.
Contact: Danish Maritime Assistance Service, mas@sok.dk, +45 72 85 03 71.
The Danish Maritime Assistance Service will forward any inquiries to the relevant Danish authority