KEY TAKEAWAYS: Saronic investing $300M to expand its Franklin, Louisiana shipyard Project will create 1,500 direct jobs and boost total employment by 3,200 Expansion increases capacity for autonomous surface vessel production State incentives and regional resources support long-term growth Saronic Technologies will invest $300 million to expand its shipyard in Franklin, Louisiana, a project expected to create more than 3,200 direct and indirect jobs and significantly boost the Bayou Region’s maritime manufacturing sector. The company announced December 3 that the expansion will increase production capacity for its autonomous surface vessels, a fast-growing segment serving defense and commercial markets. Construction began in November and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with expanded operations starting in 2027. The project includes more than 300,000 square feet of new shipyard space, including three additional slips, a larger warehouse and a new assembly line for large vessels. Company officials said the improvements will help meet rising demand for autonomous maritime systems. Saronic plans to create 1,500 new direct jobs with an average annual salary of nearly $88,000, about 46% higher than the average wage in St. Mary Parish, according to Louisiana Economic Development. State economic officials estimate another 1,770 indirect jobs will be generated through the regional supply chain. Gov. Jeff Landry said the announcement underscores Louisiana’s long-standing role in U.S. defense manufacturing. “Louisiana has long built the ships and technology that keep America strong,” Landry said, adding that the project highlights the strength of the state’s workforce and pro-industry policies. The company established its Louisiana operations earlier this year when it acquired the former Gulf Craft shipyard in Franklin, retaining the site’s workforce and expanding headcount to more than 100 employees. In August, Saronic marked the keel-laying of its first 150-foot vessel, the Marauder, signaling progress toward scaled production. Saronic CEO Dino Mavrookas said the expansion positions the company to accelerate manufacturing of its autonomous vessels. “The strong support we have received from our state and local partners has enabled us to move quickly and confidently as we scale production,” Mavrookas said. “Together, we’re creating high-quality jobs, growing the Gulf Coast’s maritime economy, and building the advanced maritime capabilities our nation needs.” LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois said the project leverages Louisiana’s deep maritime expertise. “This project builds on that proud legacy by integrating new technology and innovation,” she said. To secure the investment, the state offered an incentives package that includes LED FastStart workforce services, a $2 million performance-based grant and $3 million in Economic Development Award Program funding for infrastructure improvements. Saronic is also expected to participate in Louisiana’s Quality Jobs Program. Local leaders praised the project as a major economic milestone for St. Mary Parish. Parish President Sam Jones said it signals “a new era of economic leadership in South Louisiana,” while regional economic development organizations said the investment strengthens the Gulf Coast’s position in advanced manufacturing and defense technology. Saronic develops autonomous surface vessels ranging from 24-foot craft to larger 180-foot platforms, integrating hardware, software and manufacturing operations to meet increasing demand for unmanned maritime systems. ...read more read less