Saronic, a prominent defense technology company specializing in autonomous surface vessels (ASVs), has successfully raised $175 million in a Series B funding round, catapulting its valuation to $1 billion. The funding round was spearheaded by Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), with notable contributions from 8VC, Caffeinated Capital, Elad Gil, NightDragon, and others.
Saronic’s advanced ASVs, including the Spyglass and Cutlass models, are designed to enhance maritime capabilities for the U.S. Navy and its allies. These vessels integrate state-of-the-art hardware, software, and artificial intelligence to execute critical maritime missions efficiently and safely. By augmenting the existing naval fleet, Saronic’s ASVs enable forces to extend their operational reach while minimizing risks to personnel and missions.
CEO Dino Mavrookas emphasized the transformative potential of Saronic’s technology, highlighting its ability to deliver robust naval power without the traditional costs and delays associated with shipyards. He expressed gratitude for the confidence and support of the investors, underscoring Saronic’s mission to build scalable and integrative solutions for modern naval warfare.
Katherine Boyle, General Partner at a16z, lauded Saronic’s innovative contributions to national defense, noting the critical importance of maintaining technological superiority in the face of evolving global threats. The new investment will bolster Saronic’s domestic and international growth, enhancing its manufacturing capabilities and accelerating research and development of new autonomous technologies.
Alex Moore, Partner at 8VC, remarked on the strategic importance of Saronic’s advancements in deterring adversaries like China, emphasizing the company’s ability to deliver relevant and scalable autonomous capabilities. Saronic’s expanding fleet, including the forthcoming Corsair model, is poised to meet diverse operational needs with integrated autonomous features and payload flexibility, ensuring superior performance even in challenging environments.
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