U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)
ABS Group has worked with the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) providing support on developing and enhancing the Maritime Security Risk Analysis Model (MSRAM) tool/methodology since its inception in 2005. MSRAM is a software tool designed to capture, define, and analyze the maritime risk of terrorist attacks at the local, regional, and national levels. ABS Group worked with a large cross section of USCG and intelligence community personnel, ranging from the local to the national level, to establish a comprehensive risk assessment methodology.
MSRAM is designed to support decision making at all levels of the USCG. At the national level, MSRAM data is used for (1) long-term strategic resource planning, (2) identifying capabilities needed to combat future terrorist threats, and (3) identifying the highest risk scenarios and targets in the maritime domain. MSRAM data feeds the creation of a geospatial risk map, giving operational planners a new perspective on where they are most vulnerable. At the local level, the Captains of the Port (COTPs) can use MSRAM as a tactical planning tool. MSRAM can help identify the highest risk scenarios currently faced, allowing the COTPs to better deploy their defensive assets. MSRAM data is also used as the basis for the DHS Port Security Grant Program (PSGP) by characterizing the magnitude of risk reduction envisioned if a grant proposal is funded.