Full Breakdown
Trump Administration Advances High-Power Microwave Weapon for Coast Guard Drug Interdiction
5/19/2026, 9:32:56 PM
Coast Guard HPM Initiative
The Trump Administration is advancing a high-power microwave (HPM) weapon to target drug-smuggling boats on the high seas. The Coast Guard plans to develop an HPM device mountable on small vessels and personal watercraft under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA). Lockheed Martin Corporation is a primary partner because it already manufactures an HPM effector with suitable size, weight and power.
Background
The Federal Register notice reflects the administration’s broader push for advanced maritime technologies, including small modular reactors for commercial ships. The HPM weapon is intended to augment the Coast Guard’s drug and human-trafficking interdiction missions.
Data & Statistics
- The notice was posted on Monday in the Federal Register.
- Lockheed Martin is a Maryland-based defense contractor.
Key Players
The U.S. Coast Guard leads the effort. Lockheed Martin, a Maryland-based defense contractor, provides the HPM effector. The notice invites other firms to submit miniaturization proposals, creating an open competition.
Technical Details
The considered HPM effector can be adapted for Coast Guard small boats and personal watercraft. Its primary effect is to damage target electronics, disabling drug-smuggling operations. No power output or size metrics are disclosed.
Implications
Deploying an HPM weapon offers a non-kinetic means to disrupt trafficking without lethal force. The program aligns with the administration’s goal to revitalize the maritime industrial base and boost interdiction capacity on the high seas.
Official Statements
The Federal Register entry says the Coast Guard is pursuing the HPM system “to augment its drug and human trafficking interdiction missions.” It notes Lockheed Martin “manufactures and develops an HPM effector that has a size, weight, and required power that could potentially, with modification, be used on Coast Guard small boats.” The notice adds the Coast Guard “does not want to exclude other viable participants” in development process.
Verbatim Quotes
- “to augment its drug and human trafficking interdiction missions,” — Federal Register
- “The Coast Guard is considering Lockheed Martin Corporation for participation” — Federal Register
- “manufactures and develops an HPM effector that has a size, weight, and required power that could potentially, with modification, be used on Coast Guard small boats” — Federal Register
- “other viable participants.” — Federal Register
Next Steps
The Coast Guard will accept proposals from additional firms to miniaturize microwave weapons. After partner selection, the CRADA will guide engineering, testing and potential fielding of the HPM system on Coast Guard assets.
