BigBear.ai, a defense technology company focused on mission-ready artificial intelligence solutions for national security and trade operations, has announced a commercial agreement with PTG (Panama Transshipment Group), Panama’s largest logistics operator, to deploy a next-generation AI-powered cargo security management platform. The release is the first-ever commercial use of International Shipping Compliance application, which is the result of a partnership between BigBear.ai and Narval.
This contract is a big move in the direction of better supply chain visibility and cargo security along international trade routes. PTG is already leveraging the platform to increase operational transparency and improve supervision of cargo handling processes.
“Securing the global supply chain requires innovation, trust, and the ability to verify each handoff along the way,” said Kevin McAleenan, CEO, BigBear.ai.
Narval Holding Corp. and its subsidiary, International Shipping Compliance S.A. (ISC), launched the Global Shipping Security System application in partnership with BigBear.ai in August 2025. They came up with the solution to the issues of cargo security, illicit trade circulation, and the rising complexity of global logistics networks.
Through cutting-edge AI, the cargo security platform integrates biometric ID, covert intelligence, and live data to give comprehensive visibility throughout the shipment path. The system offers the capability for logistics operators and customs officials to track cargo more efficiently by determining the persons who handle shipments, tracing cargo profile changes, and getting alert about suspicious activity in time.
Also Read: Veritiv Expands Acquisitions of Quick Pak and Stickel Packaging Supply
By using biometrics for security, the system’s chain-of-custody method connects drivers, transport vehicles, containers, and security seals, establishing a record that can be verified and is subject to auditing from start to finish. A unified control panel merges vehicle and driver data live, This way allowing logistics operators to reveal cargo flow irregularities, track cargo movements, and develop cargo security threats intelligence capable of dashing smuggling and other criminal activities.
In addition to streamlining inspections and reducing manual risk assessments, the solution aligns with international security frameworks including BASC and C-TPAT standards, reinforcing compliance across global shipping operations.
Troy Miller, former acting U.S. Customs and Border Protection commissioner who joined BigBear.ai in March 2026 as Senior Vice President of Department of Homeland Security Solutions, emphasized the growing importance of intelligent supply chain monitoring.
“Even the best customs and law enforcement agencies around the world can only physically inspect a fraction of global cargo. The answer is not slowing commerce. It is making supply chains smarter, more transparent, and more secure. Criminal organizations no longer rely solely on covert routes or hidden smuggling corridors. Today, they exploit the very arteries of legitimate global commerce—ports, free trade zones, trucking routes, and containerized cargo systems that power the world economy. That is what makes this new commercial deployment in Panama so significant, and why others can learn from the rapid implementation.”
The deployment in Panama carries strategic importance due to the country’s role as one of the world’s most vital trade and logistics hubs.It is estimated that the Panama Canal accounts for 56% of the world’s maritime trade, serving as a bridge for the main shipping routes between Asia Europe North America, and South America. Panama’s port facilities handle around 10 million TEUs each year, most of the which are related to transshipment operations.
Because of its scale and geographically important location, the region is increasingly becoming a point of interest for transnational criminal organizations who want to take advantage of the legitimate trade channels for trafficking illegal goods and drugs. Reports from the Panama Canal Authority show that more than 120 metric tons of cocaine were seized in connection with containerized cargo operations only in 2023.
“Securing the global supply chain requires innovation, trust, and the ability to verify each handoff along the way,” said Kevin McAleenan, CEO, BigBear.ai. “By launching in Panama, a critical gateway for global trade, we are laying the foundation for broader regional adoption and collaboration with international shipping lines.”
Narval leadership also highlighted the broader implications of the partnership for global trade modernization and logistics integrity.
“The future of global trade depends on secure, trusted, and transparent logistics networks,” said Mario Pérez Balladares, Chairman of Narval. “Panama stands at the center of international commerce, and this collaboration with BigBear.ai represents an important step toward strengthening supply chain integrity across the region and beyond.”
