US Coast Guard deploys autonomous Saildrones to patrol 90,000-square-mile lakes

The U.S. Coast Guard will deploy autonomous Saildrone surface vessels across the Great Lakes from May through October.

The wind- and solar-powered drones will monitor vessel activity, collect weather and environmental data, and help detect illegal behavior.

The system is also expected to support emergency response and border security while expanding coverage without adding crews.

The move signals the Coast Guard is shifting autonomous technology from testing into routine maritime operations.