The concept of privateering, historically used by the U.S. to supplement its naval power, is facing renewed debate. Founding Fathers like Benjamin Franklin and William Whipple expressed moral reservations about the practice, even as presidents like John Adams and James Madison utilized it during conflicts such as the Quasi-War and the War of 1812.

In modern times, privateering is prohibited under international law. However, recent legislative proposals by Sen. Mike Lee and Rep. Tim Burchett aim to revive it, particularly for combating drug cartels and for cyber warfare operations. These proposals suggest authorizing "digital privateers" to seize assets from adversaries.

The discussion extends to space, where the lines between commercial and military operations are increasingly blurred. As the U.S. Space Force integrates privately owned satellites and considers space-based weapons, questions arise about the potential for private operators to engage offensively. The recent National Defense Authorization Act included an amendment prohibiting the Pentagon from fielding privatized missile defense systems, emphasizing that such weapon systems must be owned and operated by the U.S. military, not by "space privateers."