July 27, 2021: The U.S. Government is pleased to announce the recent installation of the Maritime Domain Awareness Open-Source (OpenSA) Operations Center at the National Information Sharing and Coordination Centre (NISCC) in Seychelles.
The center will use a data fusion system that will enable the display of a Common Operating Picture for intelligence gathering and mission tasking. The center will use a data fusion system that will combine the data from different maritime surveillance systems, such as radars and vessel monitoring systems (VMS), and incorporate more consistent, accurate, and clear information into the OpenSA feed. This system will allow Seychelles to better monitor and protect their exclusive economic zone, and deal with challenges like drug trafficking and illegal fishing.
The project was funded by the United Nations’ International Maritime Organization. The new system will allow OpenSA operators to counter illegal fishing, piracy, and other illicit maritime activities within Seychelles’ Area of Operations more effectively.
The Data-Fusion Equipment Handing-Over ceremony was held at REFLECSS Building on Tuesday, July 27, 2021. Rear Admiral Jeffrey S. Spivey, Director of Maritime Partnership Program for the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/Sixth Fleet, and NISCC Director Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Benoiton gave remarks at the event.
Rear Admiral Jeffrey S. Spivey said, “Thank you for your willingness to partner with the U.S. in our shared maritime security interests in the Western Indian Ocean. This newly installed system is emblematic of the longstanding maritime security relationship between the U.S. and Seychelles.”
Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Benoiton said, “This represents another milestone in the development of our maritime security and safety. It shows the strong relationship in maritime security that the United States and other partners with Seychelles have nurtured over the years. The realization and the installation of this project by the U.S. team will further enhance and strengthen our bilateral security agreement.”
Contact:
- Public Affairs Officer | U.S. Embassy | portlouis_press@state.gov |
- Joseph Bibi | Regional and Law Enforcement Centre for Safety and Security at Sea (REFLECS3) | +248 4303879| +248 2616836
