Anti-Piracy Intelligence: Adapting Lessons from Other Forms of Irregular Conflict

Largely separate efforts characterize the current state of anti-piracy intelligence operations. Lessons from other forms of irregular conflict – counterinsurgency (COIN) in particular – can inform the gathering, processing, and distribution of information vital to ultimately persevering against the pirate threat. The author offers seven general guidelines to assist in this regard: Maintain a Systems Approach; Adapt Organizations; Train Everyone to Serve as a Sensor; Equip Everyone to Serve as a Sensor; Adapt Rather than Rely on Cold War Intelligence Approaches; Expand the Concept of “Coalition”; Influence Select Segments of the Population. Adaptation will be essential in moulding this guidance to the demands of an anti-piracy undertaking. Orchestrating the intelligence capabilities each participant can bring to bear will be of overarching importance if those capabilities are to effectively serve as implements in achieving ultimate success.