Governor Brian Kemp (R-GA) just announced that Blue Ops, Inc. will invest $30 million in its new manufacturing facility in Valdosta, which is expected to create 200 new 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 all-domain drone and robotic solutions for defense and national security.
Gov. Kemp remarked on Georgia’s ability to attract companies with its pro-business environment, congratulating the City of Valdosta and Lowndes County for securing this deal.
“Our strategic focus on workforce development, reliable infrastructure, and pro-business environment attracts job creators to every part of the state,” said Gov. Kemp. “We are excited for the opportunities Blue Ops will create for families in Valdosta-Lowndes County.”
The Facility and its Context
To clarify, Blue Ops is leasing the former Regal Boats facility at 601 Gil Harbin Industrial Boulevard in Valdosta. The 155,000-square-foot facility will manufacture the company’s uncrewed surface vessels (USVs).
The company plans to hire up to 100 people in 2026. Interested individuals can learn more about working at Blue Ops at blueops.com.
Red Cat’s recently announced partnership with HADDY will accelerate Blue Ops’ USV manufacturing capacity and create demand for personnel involved in the production of boats after the hulls are built with large-scale 3D printers.
Senior Regional Project Manager Andrea Taylor represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) on this competitive project in partnership with the City of Valdosta, Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority, and Georgia Quick Start.
GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson also congratulated Valdosta and Lowndes County for expanding their industrial base and contributing to Georgia’s economic fortitude.
Wilson stated, “Blue Ops’ decision to locate here highlights the depth and diversity of innovation happening across the sector, and we congratulate Valdosta-Lowndes County on continuing to expand the region’s industry base.”
In Georgia, we're committed to bringing opportunity to EVERY part of the state.
Today, we're announcing over 200 jobs coming to Lowndes County as Blue Ops, Inc. establishes a $30 million manufacturing facility in Valdosta!https://t.co/rNpiy47t1A
— Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) April 20, 2026
