Red Cat Introduces FANG™ — A Low-Cost, NDAA-Compliant Line of FPV Drones for Defense and Security Operations

Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (“Red Cat” or the “Company”), a U.S.-based provider of advanced multi-domain drone and robotic solutions for defense and national security, has announced the launch of its new FANG™ line of NDAA-compliant First Person View (FPV) drones, beginning with the 7-inch FANG™ F7. Originally developed through a U.S. military lab initiative, the FANG program has evolved from concept to deployment-ready, delivering secure and retrievable FPV systems that meet federal procurement standards.
Part of Red Cat’s Arachnid Family of Systems, the FANG line provides operators with high-performance, American-made FPV drones that combine reliability with cost efficiency. The FANG™ F7 features a durable 7-inch carbon fiber frame designed for strength and stability, along with a retrievable structure that allows for reuse—lowering overall ownership costs. This blend of rugged engineering and affordability makes the drone ideal for both training and operational missions.
The FANG program was developed to reinforce U.S. drone manufacturing by reshoring production and replacing foreign-sourced components, particularly those from China. Built to comply with federal purchasing standards, FANG delivers NDAA-compliant options for defense, public safety, and government agencies. All key components have been independently certified and listed under the DIU Blue UAS Framework, with full system approval currently pending inclusion on the Blue UAS cleared list.
“With FANG, our goal was to create something entirely new for the market,” said Jeff Thompson, CEO of Red Cat. “Working closely with our partners, we’ve developed an NDAA-compliant FPV drone that’s both powerful and affordable. By emphasizing retrievability, U.S.-based manufacturing, and real-world mission demands, we’re providing defense and security teams with a scalable, budget-friendly solution that doesn’t compromise performance.”
Setting a New Standard for FPV Drones
- Unmatched Affordability: The FANG line is designed to be the most cost-effective family of NDAA-compliant FPV drones available, addressing the growing need for attritable systems used in training and practice.
- Retrievable & Reusable: Unlike disposable loitering systems, FANG drones are recoverable, significantly lowering long-term costs.
- Training Advantage: Enables users to gain proficiency through repeated, budget-conscious training sessions.
- Precision Effects: Dual-use configuration supports both ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) and precision effects missions, expanding operational versatility.
- Ecosystem Integration: Future models will seamlessly integrate with Red Cat’s Arachnid ecosystem and UAS Tool (ATAK) command-and-control environment.
- NDAA-Compliant Components: Incorporates UMAC-manufactured motors and other critical U.S.-sourced parts, ensuring supply chain trust and compliance.
Availability
The FANG F7 is now open for procurement by defense, public safety, and government organizations operating under NDAA restrictions. Orders will be fulfilled directly by Red Cat and through authorized procurement channels. Full technical specifications and purchasing information are available at https://redcat.red/fang.
Event Debut
FANG was officially unveiled at the Premier Drone Competition in Cumberland County, North Carolina, organized by the Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation (FCEDC). The FANG™ F7 makes its public debut at this event and will also be featured at the upcoming AUSA Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C.