The decision to expand into the maritime domain is driven by rising geopolitical tensions and a shift in U.S. defense priorities towards reasserting maritime dominance globally. Red Cat aims to meet these strategic needs by providing American-manufactured solutions for the U.S. and allied naval forces.
Jeff Thompson, CEO of Red Cat, emphasized the significance of this move, stating: “This is a pivotal moment for Red Cat as we evolve from an aerial-first drone company into a true multi-domain defense provider. This expansion into maritime platforms opens significant opportunities in a fast-growing and urgently needed defense sector. As the U.S. and its allies confront rising maritime threats, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, there’s a clear demand for powerful, proven, and scalable USVs made in America.”
Red Cat’s new line of kinetic-capable USVs will be brought to market in collaboration with a leading global manufacturer. The system, designed for autonomous operation and manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) configurations, has accumulated over 10,000 hours of combat use. This extensive operational history includes numerous successful kinetic engagements against enemy assets, more than any navy since World War II.
Highlighting the strategic advantage of this collaboration, Thompson added: “This system has been used day in and day out in the current conflict, accumulating tens of thousands of hours in real combat operations and achieving dozens of successful kinetic engagements against enemy assets, more than any navy since World War II. By partnering with a company that has extensive proven experience and is well beyond the proof-of-concept stage, we gain a substantial competitive advantage as we enter this market.”
Production of a new seven-meter Expeditionary Multi-Role Craft is set to begin in Q3. The craft is designed for high-speed, long-range, kinetic maritime operations and is built to accommodate larger payloads while offering extended endurance and increased firepower. Its versatility makes it well-suited for deep-strike missions, anti-ship warfare, and coastal interdiction in contested areas.
To support this ambitious undertaking, Red Cat has assembled a team of elite boatbuilders with extensive industry experience. The team, known for advanced jet propulsion systems and crafting high-quality, American-made hulls, is expected to ensure superior quality and performance in every vessel produced.
