about ukmto

For more than 20 years UKMTO has been a trusted authority in the maritime security sector, helping protect crucial trade routes by providing mariners, shipping companies, and regional authorities with essential, verified and corroborated security information. UKMTO’s approach is and will always be, to support any mariner and maritime trade customer in the provision of information and reassurance.

In the Middle East and Indian Ocean Region, through the Single Information Framework (SIF) agreement, UKMTO collaborates with global maritime stakeholders to provide timely and validated security alerts. UKMTO operates a Voluntary Reporting Scheme (VRS) within the Voluntary Reporting Area (VRA) outlined in UKHO Maritime Security Chart Q6099. UKMTO acts as the primary point of contact for emergency response. 

Supporting the Gulf of Guinea Region - UKMTO has for more than 10 years delivered the same service in partnership with the Marine Nationale MICA Centre as part of MDAT-GOG. 

Looking Ahead - Modern marine threats are multifaceted and fast evolving and the need for understanding of emergent threats is more fundamental now than ever before.   We are evolving fast to meet this challenge, aiming to deliver at the speed of relevance and provide more efficient solutions to support the international maritime security architecture.  As part of the change, we have re-branded from the Maritime Trade Information Centre to the UKMTO Operations Centre and we reinforce our commitment to supporting the safety of mariners at sea, operational excellence and international collaboration to safeguard trade routes.  UKMTO’s leading role is widely recognised throughout the maritime sector and across leading media platforms including BBC news, Wall Street Journal and other international outlets.