Overview
Illegal immigration by sea has become a major headachein recent years. In fact, EU member states detected more than48,000 cases in 2007 alone (source: Frontex annual report).It is difficult to monitor – and is dangerous, often ending intragedy. Other criminal activities, such as drug smuggling andterrorism, are also harder to police at sea. In short, controllingblue borders is a complex and costly challenge.Until now, border agencies have relied on ships, planes orhelicopters to patrol and protect coastlines. But this approachis not completely reliable – and is a drain on vital resourcessuch as money and manpower. That’s why the EU is seeking amore effective response to the challenge.
To provide authorities with early warning of illegal activities at sea andimprove overall protection of European shores.
AMASS comprises a network of unmanned platforms located a considerable distance from shore. Each platform is fittedwith cutting-edge sensors and operates self-sufficiently,i.e. without the need for manual intervention. Data capturedby the sensors is transmitted to a central command centre,where an operator views it on screen. If a suspicious entityis detected, a crew can be dispatched to investigate or otheraction taken.
Funding
Results
- Reliable, around-the-clock surveillance
- Improved situational awareness
- Highly cost-efficient
- Functional in all weather conditions
- Better use of human resources
- Greater safety for all concerned
Innovation aspects
The leading-edge technology behind AMASS provides reliable,24/7 surveillance – giving border agencies the early, accuratewarnings they need. But that’s not all. The sensors offer a360-degree view of the area above water – significantly improvingsituational awareness for coast patrols. What’s more,the platforms remain fully functional in all weather conditions.AMASS is also significantly more economical to operate thanpatrol ships, and frees up human resources for other tasks –providing an all-round more cost-efficient solution. But mostimportantly, AMASS helps border agencies protect their ownpersonnel and save the lives of immigrants.
Strategy targets
Innovating for the future: technology and behaviour