Saronic has made a significant leap in the realm of maritime technology with the introduction of its latest asset, the “Marauder” autonomous surface vessel. This launch follows Saronic’s strategic acquisition of Gulf Craft, a shipbuilder located in Louisiana, which the company intends to leverage for a quicker entry into the autonomous shipbuilding market.
The Gulf Coast shipyard stands out as a vital resource, providing Saronic with both the capacity and a skilled workforce necessary for developing and producing its medium unmanned surface vessel fleet. This strategic location is not only expected to boost production capabilities but also serves as a cornerstone for Saronic’s ambitious vision of establishing a larger next-generation shipyard known as Port Alpha. Dino Mavrookas, the CEO of Saronic, envisions the modernization of the shipyard, with plans to invest over $250 million into upgrading facilities and purchasing new machinery. The goal is to create a streamlined production system capable of delivering up to 50 unmanned vessels each year.
The Marauder, which measures 150 feet in length, represents the latest addition to Saronic’s family of Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs). Designed for versatility, this fully autonomous vessel is expected to support a wide range of missions for the United States, allied nations, and commercial clients alike. The Marauder is built to accommodate a payload capacity of 40 metric tons (approximately 88,184 pounds) and operates at a cruising speed of 12 knots (22 kilometers per hour or 13 miles per hour). For situations requiring rapid movement, it can achieve burst speeds exceeding 18 knots (33 kilometers per hour or 20 miles per hour).
In terms of endurance, the vessel is capable of traversing distances beyond 3,500 nautical miles (around 6,482 kilometers or 4,027 miles) and can remain on station for over 30 days, depending on the specific mission requirements. Saronic emphasizes that the Marauder delivers comprehensive capabilities while operating at a fraction of the cost associated with traditional manned maritime solutions. As the demand for cutting-edge unmanned vessels continues to rise, the Marauder positions Saronic favorably within the evolving maritime landscape.
