The U.S. Coast Guard is shaking up its approach to technology adoption with the launch of the Office of Rapid Response and Prototyping, or CG-RAPTOR. This new initiative is designed to slash the time it takes to identify, prototype, and deploy breakthrough technologies to meet urgent operational needs. By collaborating closely with operators, industry leaders, and subject matter experts, CG-RAPTOR aims to deliver proven solutions within tight timeframes—30, 60, and 90 days.
This rapid-response model is part of a broader push for transformational change within the Coast Guard, aligned with Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s vision to revolutionize operations. CG-RAPTOR is a cornerstone of the Coast Guard’s Force Design 2028 initiative, which seeks to accelerate innovation and streamline business processes before making larger enterprise investments.
In just 150 days, CG-RAPTOR has already made significant strides. It has introduced advanced unmanned systems, innovative personnel management tools, secure communications platforms, and real-time readiness tracking. These advancements are empowering servicemembers with cutting-edge capabilities that enhance mission effectiveness.
The urgency and impact of CG-RAPTOR’s work were underscored by Captain Chad Brick, the inaugural chief of CG-RAPTOR. “With Force Design 2028, we are completely changing the game on how the Coast Guard delivers our mission through operational agility, integration, and automation,” Brick said. “CG-RAPTOR feeds on this transformative approach, rapidly driving cutting-edge technology directly into the hands of our operators for a more effective workforce and to protect our nation’s maritime interests.”
This commitment to rapid innovation will be on full display this Friday in San Diego, where CG-RAPTOR will host a demonstration for Coast Guard personnel and select invitees. The event will showcase the latest advancements in sensor data and video feed integration, providing a unified operational picture. Attendees will see how these technologies enhance tactical situational awareness, supporting critical missions like Southern Border personal watercraft interdiction.
The demonstration will highlight how CG-RAPTOR’s solutions deliver real-time operational insights, directly impacting mission effectiveness in the field. By integrating these technologies, the Coast Guard is positioning itself to better address emerging threats and operational challenges.
The standup of CG-RAPTOR reflects a broader trend in defense and maritime sectors, where agility and rapid prototyping are becoming critical to staying ahead of evolving threats. The Coast Guard’s approach could serve as a model for other agencies looking to accelerate the transition from idea to operation.
As the Coast Guard continues to push the boundaries of innovation, the impact of CG-RAPTOR will likely extend beyond its immediate operational goals. By fostering a culture of rapid experimentation and collaboration, the initiative is setting the stage for a future defined by agility, integration, and operational excellence. This transformative approach not only enhances the Coast Guard’s ability to protect maritime interests but also ensures that it remains at the forefront of technological advancement in the defense sector.