The US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has developed a unique system that allows for the “covert and non-violent” disabling of ships, including large vessels, according to sources. The technology, which remains highly classified, is capable of neutralizing maritime targets without resorting to overt physical intervention.

During Donald Trump's presidency, there was consideration of using the system against Venezuelan oil tankers between 2018 and 2020. However, those plans were reportedly abandoned because transporting a single device was risky and the administration was not prepared to deploy it given the potential logistical and political challenges.

The development of such technologies highlights new approaches to conducting hybrid operations that make it possible to influence strategically important objects without the use of military force.