Naval War College

Organizing Chaos: Restructuring Counter-piracy Forces off the Coast of Somalia (Terrorism) Naval War College

The counter-piracy efforts off the coast of Somalia currently consist of three international operations and several unilaterally deployed naval assets. Coordination, primarily through infrequent meetings, is the means by which these forces attempt to achieve unity of effort. Such a method is not consistent with military doctrine and results in a disorganized and inefficient operation. This book illustrates how achieving unity of effort through unity of command will benefit the counter-piracy mission. It explains how consolidation of forces under the direction of a single operational commander will increase the efficiency of counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia by improving communication and coordination, balancing time, space and force, and by keeping the operation focused at a constabulary effort. Finally, the book offers recommendations that allow for inclusion of all international forces into a single counter-piracy maritime police force and how the existing coordination avenues can continue to provide valuable communications.