Regent Craft, a developer specializing in all-electric seagliders based in Rhode Island, has completed its initial contract with the U.S. Marine Corps Warfighting Lab (MCWL).

In a significant progression, the company has secured a follow-up agreement, estimated at $10 million, which offers opportunities for further extensions.

The initial phase of Regent’s partnership with MCWL, valued at $4.75 million, encompassed twelve key deliverables that validated the technical feasibility of seagliders.

This phase began with testing a quarter-scale prototype and culminated in the recently successful sea trials of the full-scale Viceroy prototype.

High-speed, radar-proof electric seagliders

The second phase of the agreement aims to deepen the evaluation of the Viceroy’s technical capabilities.

This will involve demonstrations relevant to specific defense operations, a crucial aspect as military needs evolve.

Tom Huntley, Vice President of Government Relations and Defense at Regent, expressed pride in continuing collaboration with the Marine Corps.

He highlighted the role of Regent’s seagliders in meeting national security requirements, specifically in logistics operations that face challenges in contested maritime environments.

The advantages of seagliders are particularly noteworthy for defense operations, where speed and efficiency can determine the success of missions.

The Viceroy seaglider can soar up to 180 mph over approximately 180 miles.

One of the standout features of sea gliders is their ability to take off and land on water.

This capability eliminates reliance on traditional runways, which can be vulnerable in conflict situations.

Furthermore, these electric-powered vessels can be recharged from shore and ship resources, ensuring a dependable energy source during operations.

Another significant benefit is their low radar and sonar signatures. By flying close to the water’s surface, seagliders avoid radar detection while minimizing heat and infrared visibility due to their electric propulsion systems.

For rescue ops

Their design simplicity and fewer components translate into lower operational and maintenance costs when compared to traditional aviation and maritime vehicles.

Earlier this year, Regent made strides in its manufacturing capabilities, breaking ground on a facility in the Quonset Business Park in North Kingstown, RI.

Set to be operational by 2026, this facility will focus on component manufacturing, vehicle assembly, and testing for the Viceroy seaglider.

Recent progress has included initiating sea trials for the Viceroy prototype in Narragansett Bay, representing a key milestone in advancing the seaglider’s maritime certification.

Furthermore, Regent has submitted its Viceroy Design Basis Agreement to the U.S. Coast Guard, a necessary step in the certification process.

As geopolitical dynamics shift focus from land-based conflicts to maritime challenges, the complexities of operations in coastal and contested areas become increasingly pronounced.

The “tyranny of distance” concept describes the difficulty in efficiently transporting personnel and supplies between combat zones and resupply points.

Situations such as island-hopping strategies in the Indo-Pacific or urgent rescue missions in open waters highlight the necessity for innovative solutions.

Huntley emphasized the strategic advantages sea gliders could provide in maritime operations.

Drawing from his experience with humanitarian missions as a former U.S. Coast Guard pilot, he underscored the potential of these vessels to enhance military operations in challenging environments.

Seagliders could play a pivotal role in modern defense strategies, offering new options in increasingly complex operational landscapes.