Navigating the Digital Fog: Risk Mitigation for Vessels in the Gulf and Straits of Hormuz

The maritime industry today faces an evolving landscape of threats, many of which are invisible, digital, and increasingly sophisticated. A stark reminder of this came in the form of UKMTO Advisory #28082034, issued on June 16, 2025. This advisory has raised serious concerns about escalating levels of electronic interference in the Gulf and Straits of Hormuz, a region already known for its strategic significance and navigational challenges.

In this blog, made an attempt to discuss the implications of this advisory for vessel owners, operators, and seafarers, and provide a comprehensive risk mitigation framework to ensure safe and secure transit through these high-risk waters.

The Nature of the Threat

According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), vessels operating in the Gulf and Straits of Hormuz are experiencing heightened levels of electronic interference affecting Automatic Identification System (AIS) and GPS signals. AIS, which plays a pivotal role in preventing collisions, conducting search and rescue operations, and ensuring maritime domain awareness, is being compromised by external, unidentified electronic signals.

Such disruptions are more than just technical nuisances. In a high-traffic and geopolitically sensitive region, a loss of reliable positional data can have catastrophic consequences, including vessel collisions, groundings, and oil pollution incidents.

Risks Beyond Cybersecurity

While cyber threats are a primary concern, the impact of electronic interference cascades into multiple domains:

• Navigational Risks: Loss of GPS and AIS accuracy can mislead bridge teams, especially at night or in poor visibility conditions.

• Collision and Grounding: In congested waters, even a minor miscalculation in course or speed can lead to incidents.

• Environmental Hazards: Grounding or collision of tankers can lead to oil spills, invoking regulatory and reputational consequences.

• Security Vulnerabilities: Electronic spoofing can be used to mask unlawful boarding, piracy, or aggressive maneuvering by hostile actors.

Risk Assessment Matrix

Vessels transiting these waters must conduct a dynamic risk assessment that includes the following core risks:

Risk ID                              Risk Description                                         Impact Category

R1                          AIS/GPS spoofing or loss of signal                             Navigation, Collision

R2                       Collision due to position inaccuracy                            Human Life, Property

R3                      Grounding caused by delayed response                            Pollution, Safety

R4                         Oil pollution from impact                                        Environmental, Legal

R5                       Cyber interference with ship systems                          Cybersecurity, Safety

R6                  Unlawful boarding masked by interference                             Security

R7                      Emergency response delay                                          Operational,Safety

Mitigation Strategies: A Multi-Layered Approach

A. Navigational Resilience

• Manual Navigation: Bridge teams must be proficient in traditional navigation methods using paper charts, radar, and dead reckoning.

• Bridge Team Management: Enhanced watchkeeping with increased manpower and continuous monitoring.

• Engine Readiness: Engines must be ready for immediate maneuvering.

B. Security and Cyber Preparedness

• AIS Usage Policy: Adjust AIS broadcast settings based on the risk level and in coordination with the Company Security Officer (CSO).

• Cyber Hygiene: Disable unused ports, isolate bridge systems from public networks, and monitor for anomalies.

• UKMTO Communication: Regularly update UKMTO and follow its guidance. Report any electronic interference immediately.

C. Environmental Protection

• Tank Integrity Checks: Verify the structural integrity of bunker and ballast tanks before entry.

• SOPEP Readiness: Ensure oil pollution response kits are accessible and crew is trained.

• Contingency Planning: Identify emergency anchorages and alternate routes pre-transit.

D. Emergency Preparedness

• Tabletop Drills: Simulate GPS/AIS failures to ensure bridge team readiness.

• Manual Logs: Keep detailed records of position, course, and anomalies.

• GMDSS Testing: Confirm functionality of all communication systems.

Shipowner and Operator Legal Responsibilities

Shipowners must ensure that their vessels are seaworthy not only physically but also digitally. This includes:
- Updating Safety Management Systems (SMS) and Ship Security Plans (SSP) to cover AIS/GPS spoofing.
- Filing UKMTO reports and maintaining logs for legal defensibility.
- Training crew to react to electronic deception and maintain navigational integrity.
- Reviewing insurance coverage for cyber-related exclusions.

Practical Checklist for Onboard Use

To assist ships in implementing these measures, a structured checklist has been created and can be downloaded from here,

This checklist can be customized for different vessel types and trading patterns and serves as a valuable tool for compliance audits, inspections, and drills.

Final Thoughts

In a world where maritime operations are becoming increasingly digitized, the threat of electronic interference poses a clear and present danger. The Gulf and Straits of Hormuz remain a vital maritime corridor, and shipping companies must adopt a proactive stance.

Integrating technology with traditional seamanship, fostering a culture of vigilance, and complying with the international maritime regulations can collectively safeguard crew, cargo, and the marine environment.

Stay safe, stay alert, and ensure your vessel is digitally and operationally resilient.

About the Author:
Chintapalli Venkata Balaji is a former Chief Engineer, Marine Surveyor/Auditor, and Maritime Lawyer with over 28 years of experience in the maritime industry. He currently heads the maritime techno-legal consultancy at Beacon Maritime Consultants.