US naval vessels are set to receive a significant upgrade in situational awareness as the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) selects RTX’s Raytheon to develop a next-generation sensing and targeting solution. The advanced system is designed to enhance real-time threat detection and decision-making for naval operators operating in contested maritime environments.
The solution combines electro-optical and infrared sensors with advanced detection software and integrated command-and-control capabilities. A tethered drone equipped with these sensors will be deployed from a semi-autonomous unmanned platform, which can be towed by either commercial or naval logistics vessels. The drone will continuously stream targeting and surveillance data to remote operators, enabling faster and more informed engagement decisions against potential threats.
The program’s first phase will focus on simulated engagements to assess system performance, sensor integration, and operator workflows. Based on the results, the second phase will introduce operational launchers and effectors, allowing for live testing and validation of the full capability. Raytheon noted that while the system is primarily intended to protect vulnerable vessels, it could be adapted for a wider range of naval and maritime security missions.
Beyond force protection, the technology could support automated overwatch for medium and large unmanned surface vessels, as well as manned combatants operating across multiple theaters. This flexibility positions the system as a potential force multiplier for future distributed maritime operations.
