Now that Acting Commandant Adm. Kevin Lunday has confirmed the new Robotics Mission Specialist (RMS) rate will launch next year, the Coast Guard is offering more details—plus a survey for members who might be interested in pursuing it.
These specialists will become experts in deploying unmanned autonomous systems across all 11 statutory missions of the service. While many details are still being finalized for the RMS rate—the first new enlisted job field since Cyber Mission Specialists (CMS) were stood up in 2023—here’s what we know so far:
What will the RMS rate be responsible for?
Robotics Mission Specialists will operate, maintain, and innovate with Unmanned Systems (UxS) and Counter-Unmanned Systems (C-UxS), including aerial drones, underwater vehicles, surface craft, and ground robots. They will make real-time decisions to deploy these technologies in support of missions such as drug interdiction, search and rescue, port security, and environmental monitoring.
Why is this rate being established now?
Unmanned systems have become a transformational, force multiplier for the Coast Guard, providing real-time tactical awareness and capabilities for multiple operations. To fully integrate this technology across the service, the Robotics and Autonomous Systems Program Executive Office (RAS-PEO) was stood up this past summer as part of Force Design 2028.
In September, the Coast Guard announced plans to invest $350 million in new systems, including 16 remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs) to replace aging underwater units used by deployable specialized forces, 18 packable robots to assist strike teams in confined or hazardous spaces, 125 new short-range unmanned aerial systems (UAS). An additional $150 million will go towards counter-unmanned aircraft systems technology.
Currently, robotics responsibilities are spread across multiple ratings, often forcing members to juggle these duties alongside their primary roles. The RMS rate will allow specialists to focus exclusively on rapidly evolving technologies while enabling other rates to concentrate on their core missions.
“The truth is, we can’t rely on traditional rates to carry this load anymore,” said Master Chief Petty Officer Geoffrey Gall, who has been working with the RAS-PEO. “The field is changing too quickly. This new rating ensures the Coast Guard is ready for the future.”
What will the career path look like for RMS?
Initially, the RMS rate will be open to motivated individuals at all stages of their Coast Guard career. While the A-School concept and subsequent training is still under development, the initial standup will come from within the fleet. No matter the starting point, new RMS members are entering a dynamic career field with unique and exciting opportunities.
The journey begins with mastering the fundamentals: learning to maintain and operate the Coast Guard's essential robotic systems, such as the SR-UAS. As experience is gained and potential is demonstrated, progression continues toward managing and deploying the Coast Guard’s most sophisticated robotic platforms. Think advanced Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) surveying domestic shores and inland waterways, Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) capable of exploring the ocean depths, and refined Counter-UAS technologies—all designed to keep the nation safe.
However, the career trajectory does not end with technical expertise. The Coast Guard is committed to providing a clear path for advancement beginning at the E-4 level, culminating in a dedicated Robotics Chief Warrant Officer specialty and, for those who strive for the highest levels of enlisted leadership, the opportunity to achieve the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer.
How will RMS rates be trained?
The Navy Robotics Warfare School at Carnegie Mellon University will initially serve as the A-School for the RMS rate. This month-long course, already used by the Navy and other military branches, trained four Coast Guard members who graduated in September 2025.
In the future, this curriculum will likely be supplemented by Coast Guard-specific training. RMS personnel will be trained to operate drones and ROVs, build their own robots, and master foundational technologies such as artificial intelligence, coding, and systems integration.
Master Chief Petty Officer Thomas Watts, who brings experience from the Marine Science Technician (MST) rating, emphasized the interdisciplinary nature of RMS. “Like the MST, the RMS rating will cut across all Coast Guard missions,” he said. “So you’ll need different skill sets.”
What’s the process for filling RMS billets?
The RMS rate will officially stand up by October 2026. Initially, billets will be filled through lateral moves by members with existing robotics and unmanned systems experience or certifications.
Senior Chief Petty Officer Christian Parker, who is helping design the new rating, has been identifying qualified personnel through Direct Access, Coast Guard Business Intelligence (CGBI) and a recently released RMS interest survey: RMS Interest Survey. “We’ve been scraping sources for people with UxS and C-UxS qualifications—pilots, technicians, anyone who’s already been doing this,” he said.
The Coast Guard has requested 140 personnel to support two major events in 2026—the World Cup and the 250th Anniversary of the United States—that will require robotics capabilities. These individuals are expected to be the first group of lateral transfers into the RMS rate.
What background is the Coast Guard looking for in lateral moves?
The Coast Guard is seeking members with diverse skill sets and experience in robotics, autonomous systems, and STEM fields. This includes expertise in drone operations, artificial intelligence integration, and related technical disciplines.
How can members improve their chances of becoming an RMS?
Members interested in transitioning to the RMS rate should pursue opportunities to gain robotics experience and certifications. Suggested steps include:
- Enrolling in advanced education programs such as the U.S. Navy Community College’s associate degree in uncrewed systems or Embry-Riddle’s certificate program.
- Obtaining FAA Part 107 certification for drone operations.
- Taking free military education courses related to robotics through Joint Knowledge Online (JKO).
- Gaining hands-on experience with unmanned systems at local commands.
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