Seadronix raises funds to advance autonomous maritime navigation AI solutions

Seadronix, a South Korean developer of AI-powered autonomous ship navigation solutions, has raised approximately 15bn won ($11.3m) via Series B funding round.

With the fresh capital, Seadronix will further develop its ship AI solutions and robotics technologies, as well as actively pursue opportunities in the global market, building on recent contracts in Singapore and the Netherlands.

The funding round saw participation from new investors including LB Investment and KB Investment, and Korea Development Bank.

Existing investors, including Wonik Investment Partners and Lighthouse Combined Investment, also contributed to the funding round.

KB Investment director Lee Jun-seok said: “Seadronix serves as a barometer for autonomous navigation solutions, with its progress having a major impact on market trends.”

Seadronix’s suite of AI solutions includes NAVISS, an AI navigation support and monitoring system, and Rec-SEA, software that upgrades existing vessel cameras, as well as AVISS, an AI port management and monitoring system.

These solutions are being deployed globally.

Seadronix CEO Byeolteo Park said: “This investment is not only a recognition of our accumulated competitiveness in AI technologies tailored to the maritime environment and our business achievements but also a commitment to the future of autonomous navigation.”

Founded in 2015, Seadronix develops advanced situational awareness AI technologies for the maritime industry.

The company has received certifications for new technology and innovative products from the South Korean Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries.

The company is also involved in key government-led projects to secure future national technologies, including the Won160bn ($110m) Autonomous Ship Technology Development Project.

Last year in April, Seadronix introduced Rec-SEA Plugin, an AI software that upgrades conventional ships to smart ships by leveraging existing onboard sensors such as LiDAR and RADAR.