OVERVIEW
The FSM Maritime Atlas is an interactive application designed for training, exercises and the analysis of maritime incident management. The user tracks the development of a situation on the map, allocates resources, validates decisions and observes their effects on the conduct and duration of the response.
The analysis utilises the concepts introduced by the Maritime Security Forum (FSM): MSE, MSCoG, MSC, MSR, MSEL, MCS, MSCF and IMSA. These provide the conceptual framework for assessing the situation, justifying decisions and evaluating the progress of the exercise. The analytical content can be supplemented and revised as the exercise progresses, depending on the information available and changes in the situation.
The exercise can be carried out from the initial alert and verification of information through to the response, the rescue of persons, the restoration of the situation and the closure of the case.
Predefined scenarios and custom scenarios
The main library includes 12 predefined scenarios covering suspicious objects and drifting mines, unidentified maritime drones, unconfirmed aerial sightings, collisions requiring search and rescue, port incidents, communications disruptions, offshore events and marine pollution.
Users can also create new scenarios via the scenario lab, available amongst the application’s tools. This allows the definition of the identifier, title, incident type, geographical area, position, premise and chronology of events. User-defined scenarios can be documented and used to develop exercises tailored to training or research objectives.
For new scenarios, the incident cycle analysis tools can generate an initial proposal based on the data entered, which the user then checks and completes. In the current version, creating a scenario in the lab does not mean it is automatically integrated into all functions of the main simulator; the complete cinematic and operational sequence is verified for the 12 predefined scenarios.
Adaptable forces and assets
Each predefined scenario proposes an initial deployment of forces and assets, tailored to the incident. The operator can review this proposal, modify the parameters and select additional resources, depending on how the situation develops and the decisions taken.
Depending on the scenario, the following are available: FNR response vessels with EOD teams, fast patrol boats, helicopters, aerial assets, SAR vessels and helicopters, Coastguard assets, tugs, fire-fighting vessels, anti-pollution teams, medical resources and other civilian or technical assets. Available reserves can be deployed at a later stage, on command.
A single main working window
The map, the current situation, the next action to be taken and the main commands are all brought together in a single space. Changing parameters, completing the analysis and entering decisions are carried out in dedicated windows, after which the user returns to the main view.
The map displays the target or incident, the positions of the resources, the routes of the assigned missions and the available reserves. Automatic panning tracks the area of operation. The user can manually adjust the zoom level, expand the map or use full-screen mode.
Time and the effects of decisions
The exercise does not have a fixed duration. Estimates are recalculated based on distances, speeds, and the times required for preparation, deployment, intervention, verification and recovery, as well as the declared time allowed for decision-making.
The application displays the elapsed time, mission times, the current estimated resolution time and a maximum planning timeframe, calculated based on the conditions and assumptions of the active scenario. This timeframe may change during the exercise and does not guarantee that the incident will be resolved.
When a decision window or parameter editing window is opened, the simulation is paused. Upon validation, the declared duration of the decision is added to the exercise time, and the situation is recalculated. The user can work in real time, speed up the simulation or skip ahead to the next relevant milestone.
Analysis using FSM concepts and comparison of scenarios
The concepts introduced by FSM support the analysis of the initial situation and the changes that have occurred along the way. The operator can complete and review the analytical content, documenting the available information, the rationale behind decisions and the observed results.
The log records the sequence of actions and decisions. By modifying the allocated forces, parameters and intervention times, the user can construct different scenarios and compare their effects on the progression and duration of the exercise.
The simulation provides scenarios and developments to examine, whilst FSM concepts support their interpretation and the discussion of response options.
Saving and resuming
The session can be saved and resumed in the same browser. Data export and import allow exercises to be saved and transferred, whilst saved scenarios support further analysis and training discussions.
Maps and geographic layers
The application can utilise an online geographic background and has a local backup map when online access is unavailable. GeoJSON layers in WGS84, map images positioned by geographic boundaries, and compatible WMS services can be added.
Simulation targets and assets are overlaid onto these layers. Imported maps are not automatically interpreted for obstacle avoidance, depth checking or the selection of navigable routes. Native nautical formats such as ENC S-57, S-63 and S-101 require specialised conversion or integration.
Scope of use
FSM Maritime Atlas supports an understanding of the relationship between information, analysis, decision-making, resources, time and situation recovery, using the conceptual framework introduced by FSM. It can be used for individual training, group exercises, teaching activities and the exploration of response options.
The scenarios, positions, resource availability and parameters are exercise assumptions. The application does not replace operational command systems, authorised response procedures or certified navigation equipment and charts.
Maritime Security Forum