The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) has awarded a $247.8 million contract to General Atomics for the procurement of four MQ-9B long-range unmanned aircraft systems, alongside ground control stations and essential support equipment. Finalized through a U.S. Customs and Border Protection contract vehicle, this strategic investment significantly expands the service’s operational reach across maritime domains, enhancing border defense, infrastructure protection, and offshore surveillance.
Equipped with advanced sensor suites, the long-range MQ-9B platform will augment the USCG’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities while supporting search and rescue, anti-drug trafficking, and counter-unlawful fishing operations far at sea. Officials highlighted that integrating these next-generation autonomous platforms will allow maritime crews to detect threats earlier and execute faster, well-informed mission decisions.
This acquisition forms part of a broader capitalization effort funded through recent federal budget reconciliation and appropriations, which delivered nearly $25 billion toward modernizing the Coast Guard’s fleet. By rapidly deploying capital into critical assets, the service underscores its commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology, restoring readiness, and safeguarding national maritime security.
