What does the doctrine of constructive presence allow a coastal State to do?

The doctrine of constructive presence indeed allows a coastal State to exercise jurisdiction over a foreign vessel that is acting in concert with another vessel located within its waters. This concept is rooted in the idea that if a foreign vessel is working in coordination with a vessel present in the coastal State's waters, it may pose a potential threat or be engaged in activities that impact the coastal State’s interests or the safety of its waters.

This principle enables the coastal State to assert authority over interactions that occur between vessels, thereby providing a legal basis for intervention, even if the foreign vessel itself is not physically present in the territorial waters. This helps to enhance maritime safety and order by ensuring that all vessels operating in a connected manner are held accountable under the jurisdiction of the coastal State.

This understanding also clarifies the relationship between vessels and the realm of maritime law, emphasizing the significance of cooperation and action between vessels in the enforcement of jurisdictional boundaries.