According to port2port.com, Israel Ports Development & Assets Company Ltd. (IPC) and Ashdod Port Co. launched last week a new fast patrol boat at the port which intends to beef up security in and around the port.The boat which was purchased by IPC and operated by the port of Ashdod is identical to the type purchased by the Israeli naval defense forces. Yiftah Ron-Tal, Chairman of Israel Ports Development & Assets Company Ltd. (IPC), said in the launching ceremony that IPC considers ports security as a strategic element to Israel's security and would take all necessary steps to strengthen Ashdod port security. He added that in 2008 further investment, some NIS 40 million, would be made to strengthen the port area and its surroundings. Ashdod Port Co. CEO, Mr.