Saildrone Expands European Manufacturing to Meet Maritime Defence Demand
Saildrone is expanding its European manufacturing footprint as demand grows for unmanned vessels used in maritime defence and surveillance. The US-based sea drone maker said on Tuesday it had signed agreements to produce vessels and components in the Netherlands, Norway and Poland.
The expansion will increase Saildrone’s ability to build, deploy, operate and support unmanned surface vehicles for European customers. It also comes as European NATO members increase defence investment and seek stronger deterrence against Russia.
Saildrone Builds European Capacity
Saildrone Europe managing director Robert Kleist said bringing manufacturing and operations to Europe would create a lasting sovereign capability for European customers.
Under the new agreements, Van Der Valk Shipyard in the Netherlands will produce Saildrone’s largest unmanned surface vessel, the 52-metre Spectre.
The Spectre can carry heavier sensors and sonar equipment. Increasingly, the vessel is also being developed to carry weapons systems for military customers.
Meanwhile, Umoe Mandal in Norway will produce Saildrone’s 20-metre Surveyor surveillance drones. Southern Spars in Poland will manufacture wings for the Surveyor.
Together, the agreements will expand Saildrone’s European production and operational capacity. They will also allow the company to support customers closer to their own markets.
Defence Investment Supports Expansion
European NATO members are increasing defence spending as they seek to strengthen deterrence and defence against Russia. At the same time, European governments are responding to US President Donald Trump’s demands for greater burden-sharing within the alliance.
Saildrone’s European expansion therefore comes as governments place greater emphasis on maritime surveillance and defence capabilities.
The company established its European subsidiary in April 2025. It did so following a $60 million funding round led by Denmark’s state Export and Investment Fund, EIFO.
Saildrone also opened its European headquarters in Copenhagen on Tuesday. The new headquarters forms part of the company’s broader effort to establish a stronger presence in the region.
Weapons Capability Adds to Surveyor Development
The European manufacturing push builds on a $50 million investment from Lockheed Martin in October. That investment is intended to equip Saildrone’s Surveyor with missiles.
It would mark the first time the autonomous ships carry high-powered weapons. The development adds a military capability to vessels that have primarily focused on surveillance and maritime operations.
Saildrone’s latest agreements will consequently support a broader European manufacturing network for its unmanned vessels and related systems. The company said the new contracts will increase its capacity to build, deploy, operate and support its USVs for European customers.
With inputs from Reuters