Blue Ops, Inc. will invest $30 million in a new manufacturing facility in Valdosta, a project expected to create more than 200 jobs over the next several years in Lowndes County.
Blue Ops is the maritime division of Red Cat Holdings, Inc., a U.S.-based provider of advanced drone and robotic systems for defense and national security markets.
The company is leasing the former Regal Boats facility at 601 Gil Harbin Industrial Boulevard. The 155,000-square-foot site will be used to manufacture uncrewed surface vessels, or USVs, supporting growing demand for autonomous maritime systems.
Blue Ops plans to hire up to 100 employees in 2026, with additional recruitment expected as production expands. The company recently announced a partnership with HADDY to increase output through large-scale 3D printed boat hulls, with final assembly to be completed in Valdosta.
“This investment in Valdosta is about building a modern, scalable, and domestic USV manufacturing base from the ground up,” said Blue Ops President Barry Hinckley. He said the project will help accelerate delivery of maritime systems while strengthening U.S.-based supply chains.
Brian Kemp, Governor of Georgia, said the state’s workforce development strategy, infrastructure and pro-business environment continue to attract employers across the state.
The project adds to Georgia’s growing aerospace, defense and advanced manufacturing sectors. The state’s network of military installations and logistics infrastructure has helped position Georgia as a strategic location for defense-related production and technology investment.
Local officials said the investment will diversify the regional economy, create higher-wage jobs and support long-term growth in South Georgia. Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority partnered on the project alongside the Georgia Department of Economic Development, the City of Valdosta and Georgia Quick Start.
With demand rising for autonomous defense systems and domestic production capacity, the Blue Ops expansion signals continued momentum for advanced manufacturing investment in Georgia.
