The U.S. Navy has filed a patent application for a computer method that works to predict the probability of a pirate attack through the use of artificial intelligence, Science Alert reported Thursday.
David Nield writes the algorithm uses the Monte Carlo method for probability distribution to collect data on pirate behavior, local weather conditions and history of criminal activities.
The goal is to help ships recognize maritime threats before the attack could take place by producing what the Navy calls pirate replicates based on past pirate movements, according to the report.
Based on ship location and time, naval officers will receive a pirate probability rating, Science Alert reports.
The Navy also plans to apply the algorithms to warfare situations, Nield reports.