US: 'Wall of steel' to provide shield for shipping and oil, Navy missions

Two US defense firms, Janus Marine & Defense and Raven Defense, are collaborating to create a high-tech “wall of steel” in the Gulf of America aimed at protecting critical oil, gas, and commercial shipping operations. The initiative seeks to reduce the US Navy’s operational burden while enhancing security across the Caribbean and Gulf regions. Their integrated security system combines persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), autonomous maritime patrols using unmanned surface and aerial drones, rapid interception capabilities, and remote operations center support. This approach leverages over a decade of experience with unmanned vessels, including autonomous mine-hunting missions, to provide continuous maritime coverage, faster response times, and reduced risk to personnel. The “wall of steel” is designed to safeguard offshore energy infrastructure, ports, and vital shipping corridors by integrating advanced signal detection and layered cybersecurity measures. By relying on autonomous platforms and remote monitoring, the system aims to maintain round-the-clock situational awareness and strengthen protection against offshore threats. Meanwhile, the US