Hijackings of ships in the Somalia's coast region caused havoc for international shipping from about 2001 to 2012, peaking with 176 attacks in 2011. They declined in part because of actions by the European Union's anti-piracy mission.
All ships today must have a vessel security plan (VSP). Candidates who successfully complete the VPDSD course should be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge to undertake the duties assigned under the VSP. Any candidate who has successfully completed the Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD) course will satisfy the requirements for security-related training, Paragraphs 6-8 of Section A-VI/6 and Table AVI/ 6-2 of the STCW Code, as amended, AND satisfy the training requirements of 33 CFR 104.220.
Upon registration, courses are conveniently accessible online for condidates to participate at their own pace and on their own schedule