The Pentagon is developing swarms of autonomous drone boats to protect shipping routes, potentially revolutionizing maritime security while providing a cost-effective alternative to deploying warships.
At a Glance
- The Defense Innovation Unit is seeking proposals for low-cost “interceptor” drone boats capable of operating in swarms to protect commercial shipping
- These autonomous vessels would have a travel range of 500-1,000 nautical miles and sprint speeds of at least 35 knots
- The “Pulling Guard” program aims to provide “protection as a service” without requiring permanent modifications to commercial vessels
- The initiative could lead to networked swarms of armed uncrewed watercraft, including potential kamikaze-type vessels
- The program will involve a phased development over 39 months, with human operators retaining engagement authority
Pentagon Seeks Drone Boat Swarms to Protect Shipping
The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has unveiled plans for a revolutionary approach to maritime security through its PRIME Small Unmanned Surface Vehicle (SUSV) project. The initiative aims to develop highly autonomous drone boats capable of intercepting noncooperative vessels at sea, providing a cost-effective alternative to deploying expensive warships for escort duties. These sUSVs would be designed to operate in networked swarms, significantly enhancing surveillance and deterrence capabilities in critical maritime corridors.
According to the project requirements, these drone boats must be able to travel 500-1,000 nautical miles, reach sprint speeds of at least 35 knots, and operate with diesel-powered propulsion. Perhaps most importantly, they must navigate autonomously, follow or shadow targets, and function effectively even in GPS-denied environments. The Pentagon is emphasizing rapid production capability, with a target of manufacturing at least 10 units per month once the program reaches maturity.
Operation Prosperity Guardian Highlights Immediate Need
The urgency for improved maritime security solutions has been underscored by recent events in the Red Sea, where Houthi rebels in Yemen have conducted drone and missile attacks on commercial vessels. In response, the United States and allied nations have formed Operation Prosperity Guardian, a multinational security initiative announced by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. This operation currently includes the UK, Bahrain, Canada, France, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Seychelles, and Spain.
Unlike traditional escort missions that protect specific vessels, Operation Prosperity Guardian aims to provide umbrella protection for shipping lanes. The mission is being coordinated by Combined Task Force 153, which was established in April 2022. While this initiative addresses immediate concerns, the Pentagon’s unmanned escort systems represent a longer-term solution to maritime security challenges that could reduce the need for manned warships in escort roles.
DARPA’s “Pulling Guard” Program Details
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is spearheading the development of these unmanned escort systems through its “Pulling Guard” program. This initiative specifically aims to create semi-autonomous escort solutions that can protect unarmed commercial vessels from asymmetric threats, particularly from hostile uncrewed surface vessels. The program represents a significant shift from relying on costly options like guided missile destroyers and carrier strike groups for protection.
Development will occur in two phases: an initial 18-month period focusing on platform and sensor development, followed by a 21-month phase dedicated to integration, manufacturing, and commercial transition. The program emphasizes modularity to enable rapid development cycles that can evolve as new threats emerge. This approach will also help expand market reach with tailored variants that can be exported to allies. Services will be provided in partnership with the US Navy, with military remote operators retaining engagement authority while involving ship masters in decision-making.
Practical Implementation and Challenges
The practical application of these unmanned escort systems presents both opportunities and challenges. One significant advantage is that no permanent modifications will be required on protected ships, with the capability designed to be easily detachable. The “protection as a service” model promises to deliver cost-effective security compared to traditional military escorts. However, real-world implementation may face hurdles similar to those encountered by other naval technologies deployed in harsh environments.
The program also reflects growing concerns about the vulnerability of commercial shipping to asymmetric threats, particularly from small, fast-moving unmanned vessels. As Marine Corps Maj. Michael McHugh noted, “Loitering surface munitions present a greater threat to ships because they can carry heavier payloads than similarly sized UAVs. Moreover, they are hard to detect in highly trafficked waterways and anchorages or during hours of darkness.” This evolving threat landscape underscores the importance of developing innovative defensive capabilities to safeguard vital maritime commerce routes.
