First Notification (UKMTO)

The initial vessel report a ship sends to UK Maritime Trade Operations on entering the Voluntary Reporting Area, giving identity, position, course, speed, and intended route so UKMTO can track the ship and pass advice. UKMTO then expects a daily position report and a final report on leaving the area, building a recognized maritime picture for the Gulf of Aden, Red Sea, and Indian Ocean. If a ship is attacked, this prior contact lets UKMTO alert naval forces fast and act as the first point of contact between merchant ships and military assets.