Davie Autonomous will initially focus on advanced composite uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) developed with Kraken Technology Group. In May, Davie announced a strategic collaboration to establish Canadian production of Kraken’s market-leading autonomous solutions.
Kraken became the defense industry’s newest “unicorn” after its recent $175 million Series B funding round on a $1 billion valuation. The funding round was backed by institutional and strategic investors, including the NATO Innovation Fund, the British Business Bank, and Davie parent, Inocea Group.
Davie is also in advanced negotiations with several Ontario sites to establish a production network as part of an all-of-Canada manufacturing strategy. This will combine Ontario’s strengths in advanced manufacturing, composites, robotics, and automation with Davie’s sovereign shipbuilding, systems integration, and maritime expertise, supported by suppliers across Canada.
Lindsey Kettel, President, Davie, said: “Davie Autonomous brings together the best of Canadian shipbuilding, advanced manufacturing and technology to build a new sovereign capability. It is an all-of-Canada investment that will create high-value jobs while strengthening Canada’s leadership in autonomous maritime solutions.”
The new company will also develop Canadian expertise in mission systems, software, and payload integration for applications including surveillance, search and rescue, coastal security, critical infrastructure protection, and defense.
The initiative is expected to create many high-value jobs, strengthen domestic defense production, and integrate Canadian companies into global supply chains.
