The US Coast Guard has awarded General Atomics a $247.8 million contract for four MQ-9B unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to strengthen its long-range maritime surveillance capabilities.
During fiscal year 2026, long-range unmanned aircraft, including the MQ-9B, supported Coast Guard operations that resulted in the seizure of approximately 60,700 pounds (27,533 kilograms) of illegal substances valued at around $306 million.
The acquisition aims to expand the service’s use of unmanned aircraft in offshore missions, including border security, critical infrastructure protection, and search-and-rescue operations. The additional MQ-9B systems are expected to enhance maritime monitoring, extend surveillance coverage, and support the Coast Guard’s ability to detect and respond to emerging threats across vast maritime areas.
