U.S. forces depend on unmanned sensors to detect Red Sea threats

Iranian-backed Houthi militants on Tuesday launched a widespread attack on merchant ships in the Red Sea. It marked the 26th such attack since Nov. 19. About 50 vessels were in the vicinity.

But there were no reports of injuries or ship damage.

In addition to the U.S.-led Operation Prosperity Guardian coalition warships and information-sharing teams, Task Force 59, a network of sensors, is helping protect the passage of commercial ships through the Red Sea.

Launched in 2021, it is the U.S. Navy’s first unmanned and artificial intelligence-driven task force. It uses a combination of unmanned systems and AI designed to create a digital horizon to detect any anomalies on the water and the ocean floor.

Over the past two years, the task force has completed more than 30 exercises and 50,000 operating hours at sea with international players.

Defense officials told CNBC that since the beginning of Operation Prosperity Guardian on Dec. 18, U.S. and coalition forces have shot down more than 100 attack drones and missiles, while sinking at least three small boats — this includes Tuesday’s Red Sea engagement. Carriers have continued to shift vessels outside of the crucial trade route, although the U.S. aims to help the global supply chain get back to normal.

Task Force 59’s operating platforms are equipped with sensors, radars and cameras for many uses, including navigation, data collection, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. The tech allows U.S. forces and partners to counter and deter that threat with disposable, inexpensive weaponry at scale.

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