Saildrone, a U.S.-based leader in maritime autonomy, has raised $60 million in new funding to accelerate its expansion into the European market and strengthen its presence in global maritime security. The investment is aimed at scaling operations and enhancing the deployment of the company’s autonomous uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs) across key strategic waters.

According to The Defense Post, Saildrone’s expansion is driven by increasing interest from European nations in advanced maritime domain awareness solutions. The company’s USVs are designed for long-endurance missions, capable of gathering real-time data for surveillance, reconnaissance, and environmental monitoring—all without requiring a crew onboard.

The Robot Report noted that the $60 million funding round will also support Saildrone’s efforts to broaden its technology development and operational infrastructure within Europe. This includes the establishment of localized support and deployment hubs to better serve regional defense and security partners.

In an official statement cited by Saildrone’s press release, the company emphasized that the funding will be used to meet growing demand for autonomous maritime solutions amid rising geopolitical tensions and increasing focus on protecting maritime borders. The new capital is expected to boost their capabilities in intelligence gathering, persistent surveillance, and climate-related research.

Business Wire reported that the investment round was led by prominent venture capital firms with a focus on dual-use technology. The backing underscores investor confidence in Saildrone’s potential to play a transformative role in both defense and commercial maritime sectors.

With this financial boost and strategic focus, Saildrone is positioning itself as a major player in advancing maritime autonomy and security across Europe and beyond.