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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Blue Ops Plans Valdosta, Georgia, Manufacturing Operations

04/25/2026
Defense technology manufacturer Blue Ops, Inc. plans to establish operations in Valdosta, Georgia. The $30 million project is expected to create more than 200 jobs in Lowndes County.

The investment will include the lease and buildout of a 155,000-square-foot facility at 601 Gil Harbin Industrial Boulevard, where the company will manufacture uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) for defense and national security applications. 

“This investment in Valdosta is about building a modern, scalable, and domestic USV manufacturing base from the ground up,” said Barry Hinckley, President of Blue Ops. “By leveraging advanced production technologies, we are accelerating delivery of mission-ready systems while creating high-quality jobs here at home.”

Senior Regional Project Manager Andrea Taylor represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) on the project in partnership with the City of Valdosta, the Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority, and Georgia Quick Start.

“There’s never been a more important time to expand our defense manufacturing base,” noted Pat Wilson, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development. “Blue Ops’ decision to locate in Georgia highlights the strength of our defense ecosystem and the innovation happening across the sector.”

Blue Ops, a division of Red Cat Holdings, develops and manufactures uncrewed surface vessels for security and military operations. The company specializes in modular vessel platforms equipped with sensors, communications systems, and mission-specific payloads.

“This announcement marks another significant milestone for our community as we welcome Blue Ops to Valdosta,” added Niki Ogletree, President and CEO of the Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority. “This project will diversify our economy, create higher-wage opportunities, and position our region for continued growth in advanced manufacturing.”

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