1. a) How many ships have been attacked off the coast of Somalia since January?
b) How many ships are currently being held for ransom?

2. What bold move did pirates take in the Gulf of Aden this week?

3. What type of companies have contacted security specialists Blackwater Worldwide for information on their new ship the McArthur?

4. Why does Blackwater say it is uniquely positioned to assist the shipping industry in the Gulf of Aden and elsewhere?

5. Blackwater recently acquired the 183-foot ship the McArthur for use in combating terrorists and for special missions.  What features does the McArthur have, which will enable Blackwater to protect merchant ships?

6. How could pirate attacks on merchant vessels affect consumers (your family)?

7. Acts of piracy by Somalis has increased tremendously. NATO and the U.N. are not able to stop the pirates. Do you think Blackwater's idea of providing security is a good way to deter the pirates? Explain your answer.