Sep 2026U.S. Marine Corps Phase IV development (next)
Q4 2026Sustained flight testing program
2027Commercial service launch
Current obstacles
Certification pathway unclearWing-in-ground-effect craft are new. FAA, USCG, and international authorities must coordinate on standards for crewed passenger operation.
Battery range limits long missionsLithium-ion batteries limit range to 180 nautical miles. Longer routes need next-generation solid-state batteries still in development.
Physics limits
Ground effect only near waterThe Viceroy cannot climb high or fly over land; it operates exclusively in ground effect over water. This restricts routes to coastal and transoceanic missions.
Battery energy density fixed by chemistryLithium-ion stores about 250 Wh per kg. Electric seagliders use several times more energy per mile than ferries; greater range requires either larger batteries or lighter designs.
How it works
3 parts
Hull mode
Launch from any water surface
Starts as a conventional boat at low speed. No runway or infrastructure needed; operates from coastal or open water.
Hydrofoil mode
Foils lift hull and reduce drag
As speed increases, foils lift the hull above water, reducing drag. Proven in ferries and military vessels worldwide.
Ground-effect flight
Wing flies near water surface
At cruise speed, wing flies within one wing span of water. Ground effect cuts induced drag 30-50%, extending range and lowering radar cross-section.
Spec sheet
Spec
Viceroy Seaglider
Passenger capacity
12 passengers + 2 crewR (reported)
Cruise speed
180 mph (160 knots)R (reported)
Range
180 nautical miles (200 miles, 300 km)R (reported)
REGENT builds the Viceroy, an all-electric seaglider operating in ground effect. Sept 2, 2026 first crewed flight of any wing-in-ground-effect craft. $19.25M Marine Corps contract and $240M Series B funding.
The Viceroy operates in three modes: hull, hydrofoil, and ground-effect flight. Carries 12 passengers at 180 mph with 180-mile range.
Ground-effect flight cuts drag 30-50%, reducing energy use and radar signature for defense.
September 2, 2026 first crewed flight of any wing-in-ground-effect craft with passengers.
