Magnet Defense Acquires Metal Shark to Scale AI-Enabled Unmanned Vessels

Magnet Defense has finalized its acquisition of Metal Shark, merging advanced artificial intelligence-enabled unmanned vessel technology with a proven US shipbuilding operation.

By integrating Metal Shark’s shipyards, workforce, and industrial capacity, Magnet Defense moves from prototype development to large-scale production of autonomous surface vessels for US and allied forces. 

The combined company aims to accelerate delivery of AI-enabled maritime platforms, supporting the US Golden Fleet initiative and broader national security operations.

Maritime security demands are growing rapidly, yet US shipbuilding capacity has lagged behind global competitors. Magnet Defense intends to close that gap through modular vessel design, modern manufacturing approaches, and autonomous systems that can operate with minimal personnel onboard. 

Metal Shark’s US Footprint

Metal Shark has delivered more than 2,000 vessels worldwide, including over 500 to the US Navy and 600 to the US Coast Guard. Its portfolio spans law enforcement and allied military clients, providing a foundation for scaling AI-enabled, mission-specific unmanned vessels at speed.

Between 2022 and 2025, the company secured multiple high-value deals, supplying patrol boats, interceptors, and support vessels.

In 2024, Metal Shark won a major award under a US Navy Patrol Boat Flight 2 contract, part of a roughly $290-million agreement to build up to 73 patrol boats for navy and Department of Homeland Security use. 

The company also supplied patrol boats to allied partners under US government-funded foreign military sales programs.

Beyond crewed craft, Metal Shark has been advancing unmanned surface vessel concepts that leverage its existing hull designs. In April 2025, the company unveiled a prototype High‑Speed Maneuverable Unmanned Surface Vessel.