DARPA and Raytheon have partnered to address a growing threat to global shipping: attacks by drones. Their new initiative, Pulling Guard, aims to develop a semi-autonomous, tow-behind platform that trails commercial vessels, providing detection and countermeasure capabilities without requiring ships themselves to be armed.
The urgency of the problem is visible in places like the Black Sea. In 2026, commercial vessels there have increasingly hugged Turkey’s southern coastline rather than sailing direct routes. The shift reflects the risk posed by Ukrainian uncrewed systems targeting Russian shipping. Despite lacking a conventional navy, Ukraine has used airborne and maritime drones to disrupt traffic, prompting ships of many nations to steer clear of contested waters.
Similar drone-related incidents have occurred in the Red Sea, the Strait of Hormuz, and even the Baltic Sea. Navies are stretched thin and cannot guarantee constant protection against piracy, terrorism, or regional conflicts. The result is longer routes, higher insurance premiums, and mounting pressure on global supply chains.
In this artist’s concept for the Pulling Guard program, the armed, remotely-operated, tow-behind surface vessel engages an incoming pirate vessel to protect an unarmed ship. DARPA | Colie Wertz
Rather than retrofit merchant ships with weapons and advanced sensors—an approach fraught with legal, political, and financial complications—Pulling Guard proposes an external solution. The towed platform carries layered sensors and countermeasures, supported by a tethered drone equipped with electro-optical and infrared systems for elevated surveillance. Sensor data feeds into secure software designed to identify threats and resist cyber interference. A single remote operator can oversee multiple units and authorize engagements.
The program is now entering phased development, beginning with platform integration and simulations, followed by live-fire testing and full operational demonstrations.
Top Photo: In this artist’s concept for the Pulling Guard program, an overwatch drone is providing enhanced situational awareness and threat detection for an unarmed cargo ship. The Pulling Guard armed, remotely-operated, tow-behind surface vessel is providing protection from incoming pirate vessels. DARPA | Colie Wertz