Rhode Island-based REGENT Craft has announced the commencement of a second phase in its collaboration with the U.S. Marine Corps to further validate the capabilities of its innovative seaglider vehicle, specifically the Viceroy prototype, for various defense missions. The latest phase of this partnership is backed by a $10 million contract that includes options for extensions, emphasizing the Marine Corps’ interest in exploring the tactical potential of the seaglider in operations such as contested logistics and medical evacuation missions.
This new phase comes on the heels of an earlier $4.75 million contract, which was focused on assessing the technical feasibility of the Viceroy. During the initial phase, REGENT conducted testing on the quarter-scale prototype and initiated sea trials for the full-scale version of the seaglider in the waters of Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island. Tom Huntley, the company Vice President of Government Relations and Defense, expressed pride in the extended collaboration, highlighting the high-speed, low-signature, and cost-effective nature of REGENT’s seagliders in supporting military operations.
The Viceroy seaglider is uniquely designed to facilitate rapid and secure transportation for troops and equipment. Its advanced electric propulsion system allows it to achieve remarkable speeds of up to 180 miles per hour over distances of about 180 miles. Notably, the vehicle does not necessitate a runway; it can seamlessly take off and land on water, adeptly maneuvering below radar detection and above sonar capabilities.
The operational design of the seaglider is particularly innovative, consisting of three distinct stages of travel. Initially, it functions like a conventional boat before transitioning into hydrofoil mode, where it elevates above the water’s surface akin to a high-tech water ski as it accelerates. In open water environments, the hydrofoils retract, allowing the vehicle to glide just above the water.
This streamlined design positions the Viceroy as an economically viable alternative to traditional maritime platforms, boasting lower operational and maintenance costs.
Furthermore, REGENT Craft is expanding its efforts by submitting a Viceroy Design Basis Agreement to the U.S. Coast Guard, outlining its design features and operational safety protocols in pursuit of maritime certification. The company is also in the process of establishing a manufacturing facility in the Quonset Business Park in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. This facility will focus on the component manufacturing, final assembly, and pre-delivery testing of the Viceroy seaglider, with plans to have it operational by 2026.
These developments not only underscore REGENT’s commitment to innovation in maritime technology but also reflect a growing interest in alternatives to conventional defense logistics and medical evacuation options within the military sector.
