The world remains dependent on maritime supply chains. This merits serious attention given the dramatic changes in the overall maritime theater, specifically geopolitical tensions that create choke points  through confrontation.  The threats are framed  not only by escalating sovereignty claims, but an unprecedented build up in naval warships as well as advanced weaponry – think underwater sensor arrays and drones, etc.  Further, consider the threat of naval blockades in the Black Sea, Iranian "piracy" in the Persian Gulf, maritime terrorism in the Red Sea or transnational criminal cartels drawing tremendous profits from illegal operations waters worldwide, 

However, regardless of the threat potential there is unlimited opportunity, if the threat environment is studied, understood and proactively addressed.  "De-risking" vital supply chains have many levels of meaning, but again, almost all of them look to the sea.  (See the STRAT Podcast: Securing Strategic Sourcing). 

Mark Mansfield and Hal Kempfer explore the various facets of this topic, drilling down below the headlines and catch phrases to develop a better understanding of not just what it means, but figuring out what it means we need to do.

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