Saronic Technologies is investing $300 million to expand its Franklin, Louisiana shipyard, significantly increasing production capacity for autonomous surface vessels. Supported by state and local partners, the project adds more than 300,000 square feet of new manufacturing space, with construction underway and completion expected by late 2026. Expanded operations begin in early 2027, including a new line for larger vessels such as the 180-foot Marauder. The company is working with JacobsWyper Architects, P2S, KPFF, JE Dunn, and Alberici for design and construction. The expansion aligns with Saronic’s growing role in defense-related autonomy programs. The firm is advancing partnerships, including an effort with NVIDIA to integrate high-performance computing, AI, and advanced simulation into unmanned vessels to accelerate development of autonomous maritime capabilities. Over the past year, Saronic has expanded its autonomous platforms, unveiling the 24-foot Corsair, 14-foot Cipher, and 6-foot Spyglass—each developed to meet evolving US Navy requirements.
