Some leading shipowners and operators, including the world's top cruise companies, are employing Gurkhas on their vessels for anti-piracy duties.
According to Anglo Marine Overseas Services, P&O Princess Cruises, Radisson Seven Seas, Royal Caribbean, Star Cruises and Barber are among its customers.
The British-based company claimed it offered former crack Nepali troops as guards on board these ships.
However, Anglo Marine said the soldiers were unarmed and primarily employed for deterrence purposes, according to a Lloyd's List report.
The Gurkha teams offer round-the-clock surveillance in all but extreme weather conditions. The aim is to make their presence highly visible, so that potential attackers are aware they are on board.
Their presence will be indicated by illuminated signs, pennants, flags and high-visibility uniformed patrols.
Responses to attempted pirate boardings include noise alarms, loudspeaker notification of the presence of Gurkhas and warning that a radio alarm has been broadcast, high-power lights, flares, pressure hoses, equipment to remove grappling hooks and co-ordination of crew activity.