Maritime Security

Following the events of 9/11, the Government of Canada reassessed vulnerabilities in Canada’s transportation systems and evaluated the capacity of departments and agencies to address gaps in its security structure. The resulting National Security Policy (NSP) identified the Canadian Coast Guard’s (CCG) on-water resources and maritime information collection capacity, as well as the Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ (DFO) aerial surveillance capability, as having key roles to play in supporting national security.

The role of the Canadian Coast Guard Maritime Security group is to meet government expectations for a departmental contribution to national security through proactive leadership and management of the maritime security file within Fisheries and Oceans Canada.

The Coast Guard involvement in maritime security is based on its obligation under the Oceans Act to provide ships, aircraft and other maritime services in support of federal maritime priorities.

In support of national security, Canadian Coast Guard uses its vessel fleet, on-water expertise and extensive vessel monitoring systems to:

• Enhance awareness of possible maritime security threats;
• Support on-water law enforcement and responsiveness; and
• Enhance collaboration with departments and agencies throughout the maritime security community.