Sentinel: ShadowCat releases support yacht concept with integrated surveillance drones

29 October 2025 • Written by Dea Jusufi

Support yacht designer ShadowCat has released its latest concept Sentinel at this year's Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Developed with security specialist Allmode, the catamaran-based, 71-metre design "create[s] a mobile perimeter of protection" for its owner with an integrated surveillance suite.

A network of autonomous and piloted drones provide 360-degree aerial and surface reconnaissance, working in tandem with radar and long-range optical and thermal sensors to deliver "live situational awareness without intrusion". An integrated citadel offers a "secure refuge" for owners, guests and crew, designed for multi-hour endurance and communications resilience.

"At this ownership level, privacy and security are inseparable," explained ShadowCat commercial director Jennifer Johnston Smith. "Sentinel allows owners to live without hesitation, travel without constraint and enjoy their time at sea knowing their world is protected in every dimension."

Drone docking bays connect directly to encrypted data systems synchronised with the mothership

As a support vessel, Sentinel can accommodate submersibles, tenders, sportfishing craft and terrestrial security vehicles, including armored SUVs and ATVs. All are deployable via Sentinel’s hydraulic launch system, while dual certified helipads allow simultaneous operations for transfer, support or emergency extraction.

The platform also supports a broad complement of specialist personnel. Sentinel can host security and logistics teams, technical pilots and medical professionals within purpose-designed quarters, including medical infrastructure "equivalent to high-end shore-based facilities". The yard can install modular suites, isolation and treatment rooms, dedicated physician quarters and a recompression chamber onboard.

Secure operations centers and shielded communications hubs provide "control and coordination"

The build itself also prioritises protection, with critical compartments and stairwells reinforced with ballistic shielding.

"This vessel is about foresight," added Smith. "Every structural element was conceived to protect quietly, from reinforced bulkheads to the embedded intelligence network that keeps the owner informed and secure without ever disturbing the guest experience."