Fighting Pirates in the 21st Century

NPR's "All Things Considered" ran a very interesting piece about modern-day piracy measures. Because guns are generally not allowed on most trade vessels because the crews don't know how to use them (and various legal issues, I am sure), ships have had to turn to less conventional ideas.

For example, the Force 80 Water Cannon (pictured above) can jet 1400 gallons of water a minute up to 100 yards. Since it can be operated remotely, it is quite safe for the user - at least, if they have a working knowledge of video games!

Still, sadly, I think the future will probably lie in private militaries and militias gurading these ships. Caravans will only help until pirates learn to band together too.