REGENT Secures $10M to Advance High-Speed Seaglider for US Marine Corps

Rhode Island-based REGENT Craft is moving forward with the development of its high-speed, low-radar seaglider, the Viceroy, under a $10-million contract with the US Marine Corps. This contract marks the second phase of REGENT’s collaboration with the military, focusing on further demonstrating the seaglider's capabilities in contested logistics, medical evacuation (medevac/casevac), and maritime defense operations.

Advancing the Seaglider Program

This latest deal builds upon the first phase, which was supported by an initial $4.75-million contract. During the first phase, REGENT successfully tested a quarter-scale prototype and initiated sea trials for a full-scale version at Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island.

With the second phase now underway, REGENT aims to showcase the Viceroy’s full operational capabilities and how it can enhance military logistics with its high-speed, stealth, and cost-effective design.

Tom Huntley, REGENT’s Vice President of Government Relations and Defense, highlighted the importance of this milestone, stating,
"We are incredibly proud to extend our collaboration with the US Marine Corps Warfighting Lab and continue to validate how REGENT’s high-speed, low-signature, low-cost seagliders will enable defense missions."

Viceroy Seaglider: Speed, Stealth, and Efficiency

The Viceroy seaglider is a next-generation maritime transport platform designed to operate with speed, stealth, and efficiency. Key features include:

• Top Speed: 180 miles per hour (289 km/h)
• Range: 180 miles (289 km)
• Power Source: All-electric propulsion system, rechargeable from shore or ship
• Stealth Capabilities: Flies below radar detection and above sonar detection
• Takeoff & Landing: Does not require a runway, operates directly on water

How It Works

The Viceroy operates in three stages:

1. Boat Mode: It starts like a conventional boat, moving across the water’s surface.
2. Hydrofoil Mode: As it gains speed, hydrofoils lift it above the water, reducing drag.
3. Glide Mode: In open water, it retracts its hydrofoils and glides just above the surface, using ground effect for enhanced efficiency.

This unique design allows the Viceroy to perform rapid troop movements, medical evacuations, and supply deliveries while avoiding detection from traditional radar and sonar systems.

Expansion and Future Plans

Beyond military applications, REGENT is also working on securing maritime certification for the Viceroy. The company recently submitted a Design Basis Agreement to the US Coast Guard, outlining the vehicle’s safety standards and operational framework.

To support full-scale production, REGENT has begun constructing a dedicated manufacturing facility at the Quonset Business Park in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. This site will house:

• Component manufacturing
• Final vehicle assembly
• Pre-delivery testing

The facility is expected to be operational by 2026, paving the way for mass production and widespread deployment of the Viceroy seaglider in both military and civilian sectors.

With its cutting-edge speed, stealth, and sustainability, the Viceroy seaglider has the potential to redefine maritime transport and defense operations. REGENT’s ongoing collaboration with the US Marine Corps signals strong confidence in the technology, setting the stage for its future integration into military fleets.