"Also, there's the idea that it's the responsibility of states and navies to provide security. I would think it's a step backward if we start privatizing security of the shipping trade."I agree. I think the countries that these ships are registered in should provide them with security. Oh, wait, they registered in Liberia to avoid paying taxes in the U.S. or Europe? Great, I think the world-renowned Liberian Navy should protect them. It's not the U.S. or Europe's problem.