Defense & Military
REGENT and Fairlead Advance US Seaglider Technology for Maritime Markets
REGENT and Fairlead partner to deploy advanced all-electric seagliders for commercial and defense applications, supporting US maritime growth.
The partnership between REGENT Craft and Fairlead Integrated marks a pivotal moment in American maritime innovation. REGENT, a Rhode Island-based developer of all-electric seagliders, and Fairlead, a Virginia-based maritime engineering and manufacturing firm, have joined forces to accelerate seaglider vessel deployment and to expand advanced U.S. maritime capabilities. This collaboration aligns with recent policy shifts, notably President Trump’s Executive Order 14269, which prioritizes restoring America’s maritime dominance in response to global competition, especially from China. The partnership not only addresses national security and defense needs but also lays the groundwork for scaling commercial seaglider operations across diverse markets.
With REGENT’s global order book exceeding $9 billion and the successful sea trials of its full-scale crewed seaglider prototype, this alliance arrives at a crucial juncture for the maritime and defense industries. Both companies bring complementary strengths: REGENT’s innovative seaglider technology and Fairlead’s deep shipbuilding expertise. Together, they are poised to redefine coastal transportation and contested logistics, providing solutions for both civilian and military applications.
The significance of this partnership extends beyond technology and manufacturing. It represents a strategic response to evolving transportation needs, environmental concerns, and the imperative for domestic industrial revitalization. Through this collaboration, REGENT and Fairlead are not only advancing technological frontiers but also contributing to economic growth, job creation, and American competitiveness on the global stage.
REGENT Craft, established in 2020 in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, has rapidly emerged as a leader in all-electric seaglider development. Its flagship product, the Viceroy seaglider, is a 55-foot-long, 65-foot-wingspan vessel capable of carrying 12 passengers at speeds up to 180 mph over a range of 180 miles. The Viceroy operates in three modes: as a boat, as a hydrofoiling vessel, and as a wing-in-ground effect craft flying just above the water’s surface. This versatility allows it to combine the speed of aircraft with the flexibility of boats, targeting coastal transport markets where traditional modes face limitations.
REGENT’s technological journey began with successful quarter-scale prototype flights in 2022, culminating in the March 2025 launch of the full-scale prototype, “Paladin.” The first human-crewed sea trials in Narragansett Bay marked a historic milestone, validating the viability of seaglider technology for both commercial and defense applications.
Fairlead Integrated, with roots tracing back to 1984, brings decades of experience in maritime engineering, precision manufacturing, and shipboard systems integration. Based in Portsmouth, Virginia, Fairlead has contributed to major U.S. naval platforms, including aircraft carriers and submarines. Its expertise in modular shipbuilding, electrical systems, and mission-critical fabrication positions it as an ideal manufacturing partner for REGENT’s ambitious production goals.
The Viceroy seaglider is a technological leap in maritime mobility. Its all-electric propulsion system, powered by advanced batteries, enables high-speed, zero-emission travel over water. The wing-in-ground effect operation leverages the aerodynamic phenomenon of increased lift and reduced drag when flying close to the water’s surface. This allows the seaglider to achieve aircraft-like speeds while maintaining the operational flexibility of a boat.
The vessel’s hydrofoil system enables smooth transitions between floating, foiling, and flying modes. Distributed electric motors provide redundancy and optimize thrust, while advanced flight control systems support both piloted and autonomous operations. REGENT’s design also emphasizes safety, with redundant controls and emergency protocols informed by both maritime and aviation standards. Battery technology is a key enabler, currently supporting a 180-mile range. REGENT’s roadmap includes hybrid-electric variants that could extend this range to nearly 1,000 miles, broadening the spectrum of viable routes and applications. The modular battery design allows for rapid recharging and replacement, supporting high-frequency operations essential for commercial viability.
“The successful sea trials of Paladin mark the first time a human-crewed seaglider has operated at full scale, validating the promise of wing-in-ground effect technology for modern transportation.”
REGENT’s order book, valued at over $9 billion, is a testament to the strong market demand for seaglider technology. Customers span airlines, ferry operators, and government agencies. Mesa Airlines, for example, has ordered 200 seagliders to serve regional routes, integrating the vessels into its existing operations and exploring new city-center connections. UrbanLink Air Mobility, a Miami-based advanced air mobility operator, has expanded its order to 47 seagliders, targeting high-frequency service across South Florida and Puerto Rico.
International interest is evident in Japan Airlines’ partnership with REGENT, which includes feasibility studies and planned demonstration flights. Southern Airways Express has committed to 20 seagliders for U.S. East Coast operations, aiming for service launch as early as late 2025. In the Middle East, REGENT’s joint venture with the United Arab Emirates’ Strategic Development Fund supports regional manufacturing, maintenance, and training, further expanding the global footprint.
These commercial partnerships validate the seaglider’s appeal for high-density urban corridors, regional connectivity, and markets constrained by traditional infrastructure. The technology’s promise of sustainable, high-speed, and flexible transport is resonating with operators seeking to address both passenger and cargo needs.
REGENT Defense, launched in July 2025, adapts seaglider technology for military use. The U.S. Marine Corps has partnered with REGENT to explore applications in distributed maritime operations, awarding a $10 million contract to validate seaglider roles in logistics, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, medical evacuation, and launched effects missions. The Marine Corps’ interest stems from the need for high-speed, low-signature transport in contested environments where helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft face increasing threats.
The defense variant of the Viceroy maintains commercial performance but incorporates modifications for survivability and mission flexibility. With a payload capacity of 3,500 pounds and seating for 12, the defense seaglider supports both cargo and personnel transport. Unmanned variants, such as the quarter-scale Squire, offer autonomous operations for reconnaissance and communications, aligning with broader military trends toward unmanned systems.
Beyond the Marine Corps, REGENT collaborates with Special Operations Command and the U.S. Coast Guard Research and Development Center. These partnerships expand the scope of defense applications to search and rescue, special operations, and distributed logistics, validating the technology’s versatility for a range of mission profiles.
“The seaglider’s ability to operate above sonar and below radar, combined with runway independence, addresses critical gaps in current military logistics and operational flexibility.”
REGENT’s manufacturing strategy is anchored by a new 255,000-square-foot facility in Rhode Island, expected to come online in 2026. Fairlead’s integration into the manufacturing ecosystem brings established shipbuilding processes, supply chain relationships, and advanced fabrication capabilities. This partnership enables REGENT to scale production rapidly, meeting the demands of its growing order book. Quality control and certification are central to REGENT’s approach. The company works with the U.S. Coast Guard for maritime certification and with Lloyd’s Register for international classification. The Coast Guard has already approved REGENT’s Navigation Safety Risk Assessment, allowing human testing in Narragansett Bay. These regulatory milestones are critical for commercial launch, targeted for 2027.
Internationally, REGENT coordinates with regulators in key markets, such as Japan, to establish operating frameworks for seaglider deployment. The company’s proactive regulatory engagement supports global market access and builds confidence among customers and authorities alike.
The REGENT-Fairlead partnership is emblematic of broader trends in American industrial policy and global transportation. Executive Order 14269 underscores the urgency of revitalizing domestic shipbuilding and maritime manufacturing. The United States currently produces less than one percent of the world’s commercial ships, compared to China’s dominant share. Innovative technologies like seagliders offer a way to leapfrog traditional shipbuilding and establish new market categories where the U.S. can lead.
Economically, REGENT’s success has attracted over $90 million in investment from a diverse group of backers, including major airlines and defense industry leaders. The partnership is expected to create high-technology manufacturing jobs and stimulate supply chain development across multiple sectors. International collaborations further enhance export potential, supporting a positive trade balance and reinforcing American leadership in emerging transportation technologies.
The global gliders market, which includes wing-in-ground effect vehicles, is projected to reach $2.23 billion by 2033, with North America holding the largest share. This growth is driven by urbanization, sustainability initiatives, and the need for efficient coastal transportation. Seagliders, with their unique blend of speed, flexibility, and environmental benefits, are well positioned to capture a significant portion of this expanding market.
“By combining innovative technology with advanced manufacturing, the REGENT-Fairlead partnership is not only meeting current market demand but also creating new opportunities for American industry and global mobility.”
The alliance between REGENT Craft and Fairlead Integrated represents a transformative step in the evolution of maritime and defense transportation. By merging cutting-edge seaglider technology with proven shipbuilding expertise, the partnership is poised to deliver scalable solutions for both commercial and military markets. The timing, aligned with national policy initiatives, amplifies its impact on American industrial competitiveness and strategic readiness.
Looking ahead, the partnership’s focus on technological advancement, manufacturing scaling, and international market development positions it for sustained growth. As certification progresses and production ramps up, seagliders are set to become a cornerstone of future coastal transportation and defense logistics, reinforcing America’s role as a global leader in innovative mobility solutions.
What is a seaglider and how does it work? What are the main benefits of seaglider technology? When will REGENT’s seagliders enter commercial service? How does the REGENT-Fairlead partnership support U.S. maritime strategy? Are there defense applications for seagliders? Sources: REGENT Craft News, Fairlead Integrated
Strategic Partnership Between REGENT and Fairlead: Advancing American Seaglider Technology for Defense and Commercial Applications
Background and Company Foundations
Technology and Performance Specifications
Market Demand and Commercial Orders
Defense Applications and U.S. Maritime Strategy
Manufacturing and Regulatory Progress
Strategic and Economic Implications
Conclusion
FAQ
A seaglider is an all-electric wing-in-ground effect vehicle designed to operate exclusively over water. It combines the speed of an aircraft with the flexibility of a boat, using hydrofoils and aerodynamic lift to travel just above the water’s surface.
Seagliders offer high-speed, zero-emission coastal transportation, reduced noise, low operational signatures for defense applications, and the ability to connect city centers without traditional runways or ports.
REGENT targets commercial service entry in 2027, following successful sea trials, certification, and manufacturing ramp-up.
The partnership leverages domestic manufacturing and advanced technology to revitalize American shipbuilding, address national security needs, and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
Yes, the U.S. Marine Corps and other agencies are exploring seaglider applications for contested logistics, distributed operations, and unmanned missions, supported by dedicated defense variants of the technology.
Photo Credit: Regent
Defense & Military
France Orders Six Airbus VSR700 Drones for Navy Frigates
France orders six Airbus VSR700 uncrewed aerial systems for naval ISR, with delivery by 2028 and integration on FREMM and FDI frigates.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus.
The French Armament General Directorate (DGA) has officially placed an order for six VSR700 Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS), marking a significant milestone in the modernization of the French Navy’s aerial capabilities. Confirmed on January 16, 2026, this contract initiates the serial production phase of the SDAM program (Système de Drone Aérien pour la Marine).
According to the official announcement from Airbus, the systems will be delivered and are scheduled to enter service by 2028. The procurement involves a collaboration between two major defense contractors: Airbus Helicopters, responsible for the aircraft and flight control systems, and Naval Group, which handles the mission systems and ship integration.
This order follows a framework agreement signed previously at the Paris Air Show in June 2025, solidifying the transition from development and risk reduction to operational deployment. The VSR700 is designed to serve as a primary intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) asset, extending the detection horizon of French naval vessels.
The VSR700 is a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drone derived from the Guimbal Cabri G2, a proven two-seat civilian helicopter. By utilizing a certified civilian airframe, the program aims to lower operating costs while maintaining high reliability. The drone is powered by a Thielert Centurion 2.0 diesel engine, which utilizes heavy fuel (JP-5/JP-8), ensuring compatibility with standard naval logistics.
According to technical specifications released regarding the program, the VSR700 offers the following performance metrics:
A critical requirement for the SDAM program is the ability to operate in rough maritime environments. Airbus states that the VSR700 features an Autonomous Take-Off and Landing (ATOL) system capable of functioning in conditions up to Sea State 5. The aircraft utilizes the Airbus DeckFinder system, which enables precision landings with 10-20 cm accuracy on moving decks without relying on GPS.
The systems will be integrated into the French Navy’s primary surface combatants, specifically the FREMM (Aquitaine-class) and FDI (Amiral Ronarc’h-class) frigates. Naval Group provides the Steeris® Mission System, which feeds drone data directly into the ship’s Combat Management System (CMS), allowing the crew to process drone intelligence seamlessly alongside onboard sensor data.
“We are honored that the French Ministry for the Armed Forces has decided to launch the next phase of the VSR700 programme… Our teams are focused on providing the French Navy with a reliable, high-performance tool that enhances their sovereignty and mission success.”
, Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters
The confirmation of this order represents a push for sovereign French defense capabilities. The DGA has indicated that the SDAM program is open to other nations via government-to-government contracts, positioning the VSR700 as a potential export product for allied navies requiring shipborne UAS capabilities.
While the current contract covers six units, the French Military Planning Law (LPM) has outlined a medium-term requirement for 15 systems to fully equip the fleet. The program has a long development history, beginning as a risk-reduction study in 2017, followed by extensive sea trials aboard the frigate Provence and civilian vessels between 2020 and 2023.
We view this order as a critical step in the operationalization of Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T). Beyond simple ISR, Airbus has been developing “HTeaming,” a concept unveiled in June 2025 that allows crews in manned helicopters, such as the NH90 or H160, to control the VSR700 directly from the cockpit.
This capability transforms the drone into a “loyal wingman” for naval aviation, allowing manned aircraft to send the VSR700 into contested or dangerous airspace to scout ahead, thereby preserving human life and high-value manned assets. Trials conducted with the Spanish Navy using an H135 helicopter suggest that this modular interoperability will be a key selling point for future export customers.
By securing a domestic launch customer in the French Navy, Airbus and Naval Group have validated the system’s maturity, likely accelerating interest from international buyers looking to expand their anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare envelopes without increasing their manned fleet size.
Sources: Airbus Press Release
France Orders Six Airbus VSR700 Uncrewed Aerial Systems for Navy Frigates
Operational Capabilities and Naval Integration
Autonomous Systems and Ship Compatibility
Strategic Context and Future Development
AirPro News Analysis: The Rise of Manned-Unmanned Teaming
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
Defense & Military
Lockheed Martin Details F-35 Economic Impact in Canada Amid Review
Lockheed Martin outlines $15.5B CAD economic value and 150,000 jobs supported by the F-35 program in Canada amid a federal procurement review.
This article is based on an official press release from Lockheed Martin.
On January 15, 2026, Lockheed Martin released a comprehensive feature article titled “Powering Canada’s Aerospace Future: The F-35 Industrial Impact.” The release comes at a pivotal moment for Canadian defense policy, arriving shortly after Prime Minister Mark Carney ordered a formal review of the nation’s F-35 procurement program.
According to the company’s statement, the F-35 program is positioned not merely as a defense acquisition but as a critical driver of the Canadian economy. Lockheed Martin argues that the program is deeply integrated into the national supply chain, citing nearly three decades of industrial partnership that began with Canada’s initial investment in the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program in 1997.
The release appears to serve as a direct industry counter-narrative to renewed competition from Swedish manufacturer Saab, which has recently pitched its Gripen E fighter as a “made-in-Canada” alternative with domestic manufacturing guarantees.
In its report, Lockheed Martin outlines significant financial benefits tied to the continued procurement of the F-35 Lightning II. The company projects that the program will generate over $15.5 billion CAD in economic value for Canada, covering production and sustainment activities through the year 2058.
A central pillar of their argument is employment. The manufacturers states:
The program supports 150,000 jobs over the lifetime of the program.
Lockheed Martin, “Powering Canada’s Aerospace Future”
It is important to note that industry figures regarding long-term job creation often refer to cumulative person-years rather than simultaneous permanent positions. However, the scale of the claim highlights the manufacturer’s intent to showcase the F-35 as a major industrial engine. Lockheed Martin emphasizes that Canadian industry is already executing high-value work for the global fleet, not just for the jets Canada intends to buy. According to the release, $3.3 billion USD in contracts have already been awarded to Canadian companies. Furthermore, the company notes that approximately $3.2 million CAD worth of Canadian-manufactured components are currently installed on every F-35 aircraft flying worldwide.
The “Industrial Impact” report highlights the involvement of over 110 Canadian companies that have contributed to the supply-chain. These partnerships span across the country, involving complex manufacturing and high-tech avionics.
Key players identified in the supply chain include:
Lockheed Martin’s data suggests that disrupting the procurement could impact these existing contracts, as Canadian participation in the global supply chain is often contingent on partner status within the JSF program.
This industry push coincides with a shifting political landscape. Following his election in 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney initiated a review of the F-35 deal, originally finalized in 2023 for 88 jets at a cost of $19 billion CAD. The review was prompted by changing trade dynamics with the United States and a desire to evaluate options that might offer stronger domestic industrial guarantees.
Concurrently, Saab has intensified its lobbying efforts, proposing a production hub in Canada for its Gripen E fighter. Saab claims their proposal would create 12,600 jobs linked to a specific purchase of 72 Gripens and 6 GlobalEye surveillance aircraft.
The Battle Between Sovereignty and Integration
The release of this report by Lockheed Martin underscores the fundamental tension in Canada’s defense procurement strategy: the choice between sovereign manufacturing and global integration.
Saab’s pitch relies on the concept of “sovereignty”, the ability to build and maintain aircraft entirely within Canadian borders, independent of foreign supply chains. In contrast, Lockheed Martin is leveraging the argument of “integration.” By highlighting that Canadian parts are on all 1,270+ F-35s delivered globally, they are arguing that Canada’s aerospace sector is better served by being a small but essential cog in a massive allied machine rather than the sole builder of a smaller fleet. The risk for the Carney government lies in the “sunk cost” of industrial participation. If Canada were to withdraw from the F-35 program, the 110+ companies currently bidding on U.S. and global contracts could lose their eligibility, potentially endangering the high-tech manufacturing base that has developed over the last 30 years.
Lockheed Martin Defends F-35 Economic Impact Amidst Federal Review
Projected Economic Value and Job Creation
Supply Chain Integration
Key Canadian Industry Partners
Strategic Context: The Carney Review
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Lockheed Martin
Defense & Military
Ghana Orders Four Airbus Helicopters to Modernize Air Wing
Ghana signs contract for four Airbus helicopters including H175M military and ACH160 corporate models, financed over four years.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and details from the 2026 Budget Statement reported by local media.
The Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Ghana has signed a contract for the acquisition of four Airbus helicopters, marking a significant step in the modernization of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). The deal, confirmed on January 15, 2026, includes two H175M military helicopters and two corporate variants, one ACH175 and one ACH160.
According to the official press release from Airbus, this acquisition represents the first order for these specific multi-mission models by Ghana and signals the manufacturer’s return to the Ghanaian market. The agreement is designed to enhance the nation’s capabilities in search and rescue (SAR), troop transport, and executive aviation.
The contract covers four aircraft intended to serve distinct operational roles within the Ghanaian government and military. The selection includes:
While the Airbus press release focused on the technical and partnership aspects of the deal, details regarding the financial structure were outlined in the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy presented to the Ghanaian Parliament. According to reports by CitiNewsroom and Graphic Online summarizing the budget presentation by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the purchase is fully financed by the Government of Ghana.
The payment structure, as detailed in parliamentary disclosures, involves a four-year plan. This includes an initial installment of €62.5 million, with subsequent payments scheduled for May 2026, March 2027, and December 2028. This funding aligns with the government’s broader defense modernization plan to re-equip the GAF with modern assets.
The H175M is the militarized variant of the H175, a platform that has seen extensive use in the civil sector. For Ghana, these units will perform critical multi-mission duties. Airbus states that the primary roles for these aircraft will include troop transport, emergency medical services (EMS), search and rescue, and disaster relief operations.
This order places Ghana among the first nations to adopt the H175M, following Spain’s decision to become the launch customer for the variant in late 2025. The aircraft is designed to combine long-range endurance with a high payload capacity, making it suitable for the diverse geography of West Africa.
The acquisition also refreshes the government’s executive transport fleet. The ACH160 is part of the Airbus Corporate Helicopters line and is described by the manufacturer as the world’s most technologically advanced helicopter, boasting 68 new patents. Key features include a cabin with 20% greater volume per passenger compared to previous medium-twin helicopters and significantly larger windows. Arnaud Montalvo, Head of Africa and Middle East Region for Airbus Helicopters, emphasized the versatility of the selected fleet in a statement:
“The commitment from Ghana marks the return of Airbus Helicopters to the country with a defined focus on customer support and partnership. We are particularly excited that the H175M will be operated in Ghana, demonstrating the aircraft’s versatility across defence and security missions. This key deal also makes Ghana a leading customer in West Africa for our premium corporate helicopters, the ACH160 and ACH175.”
This procurement represents a strategic pivot for Ghana’s air defense capabilities. By selecting the H175M, Ghana is moving toward a super-medium platform that bridges the gap between lighter utility helicopters and heavy transport aircraft. This category offers a balance of cost-efficiency and range that is increasingly popular among defense ministries facing budget constraints but high operational demands.
Furthermore, the inclusion of the ACH160 and ACH175 suggests a standardization of maintenance and training protocols, as the H175M and ACH175 share significant commonality. This family approach to procurement can reduce long-term sustainment costs, a critical factor for the Ghana Armed Forces as they seek to maximize the lifespan of these new assets.
The deal also reinforces Airbus’s footprint in West Africa, a region where competition from other manufacturers has been intense. By securing Ghana as a reference customer for the H175M so soon after the Spanish launch order, Airbus strengthens the narrative that this platform is a viable global successor to aging medium-lift fleets.
Sources:
Ghana Modernizes Air Wing with Strategic Order for Four Airbus Helicopters
Deal Structure and Financial Framework
Operational Capabilities and Roles
H175M: Expanding Military Utility
VIP and Corporate Transport
Strategic Context
AirPro News Analysis
Photo Credit: Airbus
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