Federal · Title 18 — Crimes and Criminal Procedure

18 U.S.C. § 962: Arming vessel against friendly nation

Felony

What this law says, in plain English

Federal law prohibits furnishing, arming, or commissioning vessels within the U.S. intended for hostile service against nations at peace with the U.S. Violations carry up to three years imprisonment and forfeiture of the vessel and equipment.

Read the full statutory text

Whoever, within the United States, furnishes, fits out, arms, or attempts to furnish, fit out or arm, any vessel, with intent that such vessel shall be employed in the service of any foreign prince, or state, or of any colony, district, or people, to cruise, or commit hostilities against the subjects, citizens, or property of any foreign prince or state, or of any colony, district, or people with whom the United States is at peace; or Whoever issues or delivers a commission within the United States for any vessel, to the intent that she may be so employed— Shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than three years, or both. Every such vessel, her tackle, apparel, and furniture, together with all materials, arms, ammunition, and stores which may have been procured for the building and equipment thereof, shall be forfeited, one half to the use of the informer and the other half to the use of the United States.

Verify at the official source: Federal legislative text

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This page is legal information, not legal advice. Code text is sourced from official publications and may lag amendments — always confirm at the official source linked above. Plain-English summaries and relationship data are AI-derived and reviewed on an ongoing basis; verify with a licensed attorney before acting.