Maritime security is one of the three basic roles of the United States Coast Guard has gradually developed in response to a series of catastrophic events, which began in 1917.
The regulations draw together assets within port boundaries to provide a framework to communicate, identify risks, and coordinate resources to mitigate threats and consequences.
The COTP must identify critical assets within a port, develop a prioritized list of those most susceptible to acts of sabotage, and plan for adequate security measures to meet specific needs.
This definition also includes novel floating design such as: Both MTSA and the ISPS Code regulate facility security.
Security forces have helped deter piracy as well as terrorist attacks, such as the Maersk Alabama and the USS Cole.