Saronic Technologies held a keel-laying ceremony on 22 August 2025 in Franklin, Louisiana, marking the start of production for its first Marauder unmanned surface vehicle (USV). The Marauder, classified as a Medium USV (MUSV), will measure 45.7 meters, cruise at 12 knots, and carry up to 40 tonnes, with a range of 3,500 nautical miles and 30-day loitering capability. CEO Dino Mavrookas says it will be the “fastest ship built in the US since World War II.” He speaks with Bloomberg’s Caroline Hyde from the company’s Louisiana shipyard.
The Franklin shipyard, acquired by Saronic in early 2025, is undergoing a $250 million investment to scale production to 50 vessels annually. Since the acquisition, Saronic has doubled its workforce, upgraded its infrastructure, and begun modernization efforts, according to Jane’s Defense. The company is also planning a second, larger shipyard called Port Alpha to support expanded production of its Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs).
