IMS Dredges, a division of LWT, LLC, is facilitating the creation of a local security zone in the Gulf of Guinea. IMS Dredges' 7012 HP Versi-dredge is being utilized to develop the bases for the The African Partnership Station in its fight against piracy. The dredged material is creating these foundations as an integral part of the security effort.
Developing protection, such as this, has been an ongoing struggle in the region which has initiated the creation of various defense programs. The African Partnership Station, an aspect of the U.S. Africa Command's Security Cooperation program, was created by United States Naval Forces Europe-Africa as a global means of improving maritime safety and security in Africa. Admiral Mark Fitzgerald, Commander of the U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa, stated that "building partner capacity is a core element of our efforts [here]. When we collaborate with our partners, a wide array of mariners benefit from our actions. We have seen tremendous growth in the capabilities of our partners and Allies in understanding Maritime Safety and Security. If we help others build their skills, there is less likelihood we will need to respond with ours."