Private armed security teams (PASTs) stationed on a floating armory in the Indian Ocean are providing critical protection for commercial ships navigating the perilous Bab al-Mandab Strait in the Red Sea. Ambrey, a UK-based maritime risk management firm, deploys these teams, which are comprised of trained contractors with prior military experience. Armed with bolt action or semi-automatic rifles due to British maritime law, they deter potential threats and offer advice, training, and 24/7 watchkeeping to ships’ crews. With increasing Houthi-related incidents in the region, these security teams play a vital role in safeguarding vessels from attacks, including drones and missiles, while also helping ships plan safer routes.

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