MARAD Advisory 06-01 (06 Jul 28)

 

To: Operators of U.S.-Flag Vessels and Other Maritime Interests

 

Subject: Activation of the NATO Shipping Center in support of Merchant Shipping on the Eastern Mediterranean Sea

 

1. The NATO Shipping Center (NSC) in Northwood, UK continues to support NATO Naval forces deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean and has recently activated the NSC due to the recent incidents between Israel and Hezbollah.  The NSC was activated to provide advice and guidance to NATO nation merchant ships. 

2. The purpose of activating the NSC is to collect and distribute information relevant for the safe passage of vessels in the area off the coast of Lebanon and the Eastern Mediterranean.  NSC will compile a situational plot and contribute this information to the NATO Military Commander in the area.  Reporting of shipping data is on a voluntary basis. 

3. Until further notice, the NSC will be manned continuously to provide better service for ships masters, owners or managers.  The NSC will provide information to ship on the following main communication media:

   1. E-mail: shippingcentre@manw.nato.int

   2. NSC website: http://shipping.manw.nato.int

   3. Direct email communication with ships taking part in Operation ACTIVE ENDEAVOUR (OAE) voluntary reporting program.

   4. Phone:  +44 1923 843574

   5. Fax: +44 1923 843575

4. Since the area of concern coincides with the reporting area for Operation ACTIVE ENDEAVOUR, no additional reporting for ships will be established.

5. For further general information regarding this Advisory, contact the Maritime Administration, Office of Ship Operations, Division of Operations Support, Code MAR-613 Room 2121, 400 Seventh Street SW, Washington, DC 20590; Telephone (202) 366-1875, Fax (202) 366-3702.

6. This Advisory cancels MARAD Advisory 02-02 (03 Jun 02).

_____________//s//________________

WILLIAM CAHILL

ACTING DIRECTOR

OFFICE OF SHIP OPERATIONS

U.S MARITIME ADMINISTRATION

WASHINGTON, DC