VideoRay Secures $4.8 Million Contract with U.S. Coast Guard for Mission Specialist Defender ROVs
Pottstown-based VideoRay, a leading manufacturer of underwater robotics systems, has secured a contract to supply its Mission Specialist Defender remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to the U.S. Coast Guard. The $4.8 million contract, part of the Coast Guard's Force Design 2028 modernization initiative, will enhance the Coast Guard's maritime response capabilities by enabling rapid underwater inspections, disaster response, and search and rescue operations in challenging environments. VideoRay's Defender reduces diver risk, increases mission safety, and enhances operational efficiency, contributing to the organization's defense and security missions.
The selection of the Mission Specialist Defender underscores VideoRay's commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology for defense and security applications. The $4.8 million award, the largest of $11 million executed in fiscal year 2025 for rapid autonomous fleet upgrades, will bolster Coast Guard operations with advanced maritime robotics. VideoRay's track record with U.S. and allied defense customers, including the Navy's Maritime Expeditionary Standoff Response program, highlights its expertise in providing innovative solutions for critical missions.
As part of the Coast Guard's Force Design 2028 initiative, the Robotics and Autonomous Systems Program Executive Office aims to integrate unmanned and robotic technologies across all missions. These investments in robotics and autonomous systems are designed to enhance the Coast Guard's agility, awareness, and adaptability in the evolving maritime domain. The Coast Guard's commitment to leveraging robotics and autonomous systems reflects its dedication to delivering cutting-edge capabilities to the fleet.
VideoRay, founded in 1999 and headquartered in downtown Pottstown, has established itself as a key player in the defense technology sector. Following its acquisition by BlueHalo in December 2024 and subsequent acquisition by AeroVironment Inc. in May 2025, VideoRay became a wholly owned subsidiary of AeroVironment Inc. The company's expertise in underwater robotics systems continues to drive innovation in defense technology, with a focus on air, land, sea, space, and cyber capabilities.
For more information about the Mission Specialist Defender and VideoRay's advanced underwater robotics systems, visit their website.