Red Cat Holdings is strengthening its push into autonomous maritime systems with the introduction of the V7 unmanned surface vessel, a platform designed for expeditionary and strike-oriented naval missions. Built by Blue Ops, the company’s maritime arm, the 26-foot V7 is optimized for operations in contested coastal and open-water environments, where survivability and operational flexibility are critical. The vessel is designed to support missions ranging from deep-strike engagements and anti-ship warfare to coastal interdiction, allowing naval forces to project power without exposing crews to direct risk. A defining feature of the V7 is its extended endurance, which enables long-range operations and sustained presence far from friendly bases. Red Cat notes that the platform can follow less predictable routes and conduct complex maneuvers, complicating enemy detection and tracking efforts. This approach aligns with evolving naval doctrines that emphasize dispersion, deception, and autonomy to counter increasingly capable surveillance and strike systems. Unlike many unmanned surface vessels focused primarily on reconnaissance or logistics, the V7 is intended for kinetic roles, reflecting a shift toward armed and mission-decisive unmanned platforms. As competition intensifies in the maritime autonomy sector, the V7 positions Red Cat as a contender in delivering unmanned systems that enhance naval lethality while reducing operational risk.
