Article

Raytheon, a business unit of RTX, has been awarded a contract by DARPA to create an advanced sensing and targeting system aimed at protecting vulnerable commercial shipping and naval logistics vessels from threats such as unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). The system will include Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensors, detection software, and command and control features to enhance situational awareness.

Under the Pulling Guard program, the sensors will be deployed via a tethered drone connected to a semi-autonomous unmanned platform towed by vessels. The initial phase will involve simulated engagements to test system performance, followed by integration of operational launchers for live operations. The technology is expected to enhance security for shipping in regions like the Red Sea and may have broader applications across various naval operations.