To continue its mission, NATO must reverse the decline in its merchant fleet

Merchant shipping is vital for international trade and military logistics, yet the number of domestic seafarers and national-flagged vessels among NATO members continues to decline. The Nautilus Federation is saying loud and clear that if NATO wants to maintain global security, it must secure its merchant fleet, writes Rob Coston

As NATO celebrated its 75th anniversary in July 2024, an often-overlooked issue threatened its security: the decline of its merchant navy.

While warships dominate the headlines, it is merchant vessels that keep economies running and supply chains intact, both in peacetime and during times of crisis.

For centuries, civilian merchant ships have played a vital role in military operations, transporting troops, fuel, and essential supplies. However, NATO countries are seeing a troubling trend: fewer national-flagged ships and trained seafarers, making them more reliant on foreign-controlled fleets. This poses a serious risk, especially in times of war or emergency when secure supply lines are essential.

One major issue is the rise of flags of convenience, when companies register ships in countries with weak regulations to cut costs. While this benefits shipowners, it reduces accountability and can leave NATO nations scrambling for reliable transport when it matters most.

Mark Dickinson, director of the Nautilus Federation and general secretary of Nautilus International, has is clear on the solution: 'We cannot say it enough: NATO countries need to develop better retention and recruitment strategies to attract skilled seafarers and expand training programmes to ensure a highly qualified workforce.'

The Nautilus Federation – a group of 21 maritime transport trade unions from around the globe – has been suggesting that national fleets be strengthened through policy reforms, better training programmes and employment opportunities, and stricter flagging regulations. Commitment to merchant shipping would require governments to incentivise shipowners to register under national flags and employ local seafarers, ensuring NATO retains control over its vital maritime resources.

Captain Don Marcus, who is former president of Nautilus Federation affiliate the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P) – based in the United States, the key NATO nation – has emphasised the need for investment as well as better maritime strategies: 'Increased investment in national maritime industries will help create stable, well-paid jobs while also reinforcing strategic security. Without these efforts, NATO risks losing its ability to control and protect its essential supply chains.'

Without such efforts, there is a question mark over whether NATO will have the merchant fleet it needs when the next crisis strikes.