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yesterday

U.S. Confirms Uncrewed Drone Boats Patrolling Middle East Waters in Campaign Against Iran

The disclosure signals a pivot to unmanned patrols to reduce risk to crews.

A damaged bridge after an Israeli strike on March 23, amid escalating hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, as the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran continues, in Dalfy, Lebanon, March 26, 2026. Picture taken with a mobile phone. REUTERS/Stringer
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A U.S. Navy Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft (GARC) assigned to Naval Information Warfare Center Atlantic, maneuvers the Charleston Harbor, South Carolina April 17, 2025 during Exercise Southern Lightning. For the exercise, the Naval Information Warfare Center Atlantic tested several pieces of equipment as part of their routine scientific mission to enhance the interoperability and performance of various naval communications system configurations and capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Farnsworth)
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Overview

  • The Pentagon, which confirmed the deployment Thursday, said BlackSea’s Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Craft have logged over 450 underway hours and more than 2,200 nautical miles on patrol.
  • The drone boats are being used for surveillance and maritime patrols under Operation Epic Fury, and there is no public indication they have been used for offensive strikes.
  • Built in Maryland by BlackSea Technologies, the five‑meter GARC can exceed 40 knots and carry about 1,000 pounds, according to manufacturer specifications.
  • The program is moving forward despite earlier problems, including a high‑speed test collision and a recent Middle East test in which one boat became inoperable.
  • U.S. 5th Fleet is using the craft to improve awareness in Gulf waters as Iran has struck tankers and constrained traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.