Gutman notes, "Though it varies by country, generally peacetime law in the 20th and
21st centuries has not allowed merchant vessels to carry weapons. As a
response to the rise in modern piracy, however, the U.S. government now
allows U.S.-flagged vessels to employ a team of armed private security
guards. Other countries and organizations have followed suit. This has
given birth to a new breed of private security companies that provide
training and protection for crew members and cargo."
Above, SeaGull security team members participate in a drill aboard the ship.
Amnon Gutman
