What should a boarding officer do if they encounter resistance from a vessel's crew?

When a boarding officer encounters resistance from a vessel's crew, assessing the situation and responding according to the threat level is crucial for maintaining safety and operational effectiveness. This approach ensures that the officer can evaluate the demeanor of the crew, the type of resistance encountered, the potential threat to their own safety and that of their team, and the circumstances surrounding the boarding.

By assessing the threat level, the boarding officer can determine the appropriate tactics to employ. This might involve de-escalation techniques if the situation allows, or it could mean calling for additional support or resources in the event that the threat escalates. Making a well-informed decision based on the dynamics of the encounter is essential to ensuring both mission success and crew safety.

In contrast, simply retreating and waiting for backup may leave the vessel unsecured and could allow for illegal activities to continue unchecked. Calling for air support immediately might not be necessary in every situation and could result in unnecessary escalation. Ignoring the resistance altogether can lead to unsafe conditions and does not acknowledge the potential risks involved. Therefore, evaluating the resistance in the context of the threat is the most measured and effective course of action for a boarding officer.