Protection from pirates for German flagged ships
Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA) will start admission process for private armed security services, the German Shipowners' Association (VDR) said on Friday. Now, both German and foreign private security companies can apply for approval with the BAFA to be commissioned on ships flying the German flag. The new regulation has been effective as from June 21, 2013.
"It is important that the approval process for the private security services has finally started," says Ralf Nagel, Executive board member of the German Shipowners' Association (VDR).
"The key for shipowners points were considered by the federal government."
The Regulation contains a number of requirements that must be met by the security companies. Their missions must be carefully planned and documented. The companies’ employees must have personal ability and emergency medical and legal knowledge is required. The use of firearms is allowed only for self-defense or for emergency assistance.
"The ACFA is now swiftly and professionally go into the approval process," said Nagel. From December 1, 2013 only security service licensed by BAFA will be allowed to be deployed on German flagged ships.
