During an EISS for a known weapon, what must be established first?

Establishing the location of the weapon must be reasonably known first during an Encounter with an Immediate Surrender Scenario (EISS) for a known weapon because effective risk management and safety are paramount in such situations. Knowing where the weapon is located allows boarding team members to assess potential threats accurately and to develop a tactical approach to the situation.

If the location is not established, it would be challenging to ensure the safety of both the boarding team and the vessel's crew. By understanding the weapon's location, team members can avoid unnecessary confrontation and ensure that the crew can comply with safety protocols while surrendering the weapon. A clear understanding of the weapon's location also enables the team to control the scene more effectively and minimize risks during the boarding operation.

Establishing the type and functionality of the weapon, compliance of the crew with regulations, and the presence of crew members are also important factors, but they are secondary to initially establishing the weapon’s location for maintaining overall safety and controlling the boarding operation effectively.