Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) entails the gathering of information and intelligence relating to any ship or vessel navigating within a country’s maritime boundaries. By harnessing this wealth of data, a more complete understanding can be derived, and specifically around those maritime regions that pose potential threats to safety, the environment, and a nation’s economic interest. This process is commonly referred to as ‘actionable intelligence.’
Through the application of actionable intelligence, authorities are empowered to effectively enforce maritime laws. Furthermore, MDA plays a pivotal role in addressing a wide spectrum of issues, including anti-piracy, the interception of drug smuggling activities via maritime routes, and the prevention of other illicit endeavors associated with marine transportation.