Coast Guard Develops Microwave Ray to Zap Rogue Vessels
Published Date: 5/19/2026
Notice
Summary
The Coast Guard is teaming up with Lockheed Martin to create a small, lightweight microwave device that can stop unruly boats and robotic vessels. They want your thoughts on this plan and are open to other partners joining the project. Comments are due by June 18, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Coast Guard developing microwave stop device
The Coast Guard plans to develop a small, low-weight high-power microwave (HPM) device that can temporarily stop an engine or support electronics on non-compliant vessels, including personal watercraft (PWC) and small uncrewed surface vessels (USV). The project will include modeling, modification, and testing in places such as anechoic chambers, testing pools, pier-side locations, and possibly integrated on Coast Guard small boats or PWC assets.
Preference for small and U.S. firms
When selecting non-Federal participants for the CRADA, the Coast Guard says it will give special consideration to small business firms or consortia and preference to business units located in the United States. Interested small U.S. businesses are invited to submit proposals for consideration.
No Coast Guard funding for proposals
The Coast Guard will provide no funding to reimburse proposal development costs and the Federal party does not contribute funding under the CRADA authority cited. Proposers must supply their own resources and any travel or support needed to participate.
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