General Atomics has secured a $247.8 million order to supply four MQ-9B unmanned aircraft systems to the US Coast Guard. The procurement will expand the service’s aerial surveillance resources, particularly for missions conducted far offshore. Intended applications include monitoring maritime borders, protecting critical infrastructure and supporting search-and-rescue activities. Long-range unmanned aircraft also play a role in the Coast Guard’s efforts to detect and intercept illicit shipments. In fiscal year 2026, the service reported seizures of around 60,700 pounds of illegal substances worth approximately $306 million with assistance from long-range unmanned aircraft, including the MQ-9B. The newly ordered platforms will add to the Coast Guard’s capacity to observe extensive maritime areas and provide information to personnel conducting security and enforcement operations.
