Under the contract, Raytheon’s Advanced Technology team will design, build, and demonstrate a system combining electro-optical and infrared sensors, advanced detection software, and command and control capabilities. The objective is to enhance situational awareness and enable faster, more effective responses to maritime threats.
The system is being developed for DARPA’s Pulling Guard program and will deploy sensors using a tethered drone linked to a semi-autonomous unmanned platform towed by commercial and naval logistics vessels. These sensors will transmit real-time target tracking data to remote operators, supporting rapid and informed engagement decisions.
Phase one of the program will center on simulated engagements to assess system performance and operator workflows, while phase two will integrate operational launchers and effectors for live operations. “Through this development, we are advancing critical security technologies for commercial shipping in regions like the Red Sea,” said Colin Whelan, president of Advanced Technology at Raytheon.
“By integrating our proven expertise in command and control, high-performance sensing, and effectors, we will deliver a scalable, cost-effective solution that minimizes risks to both cargo and naval assets,” Whelan added. Raytheon said the technology could also support broader naval and security missions, including automated overwatch for unmanned and manned vessels operating across multiple theaters.
