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LIG Nex1 acquires maker of Vision 60 Q-UGV quadruped robot | Credit: Ghost Robotics
South Korean defense technology company LIG Nex1 has acquired a 60% stake in Ghost Robotics, which is now valued at $400 million. The companies said the deal will allow Ghost Robotics to accelerate its growth by leveraging LIG Nex1’s experience and manufacturing capabilities.
“[LIG Nex1’s] “The investment and strategic guidance will accelerate our growth and strengthen our ability to deliver breakthrough robotics solutions to a wider range of industries and applications,” said Dr. Gavin Kennealy, co-founder and CEO of Ghost Robotics.
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LIG Nex1 executes acquisition plan
Seoul, South Korea-based LIG Nex1 had indicated its intention to acquire Ghost Robotics in December 2023. Today’s announcement marks the end of the company’s strategic partnership with Philadelphia-based Ghost Robotics.
“The acquisition of a majority stake in Ghost Robotics is fully aligned with our vision to lead the future of defense and security technology,” said Shin Ik-hyun, CEO of LIG Nex1. “We hope this acquisition will serve as a driving force for our joint growth based on our two companies’ cutting-edge technological capabilities and close collaboration.”
The company says it specializes in advanced weapons systems, electronics and communications systems.
Ghost Robotics Expands Uses for Q-UGV
Founded in 2015, Ghost Robotics develops quadruped unmanned ground vehicles (Q-UGVs), which the company claims offer advantages for government and commercial applications where wheeled, tracked or even bipedal systems are not suitable.
Ghost Robotics is one of the few quadruped robot manufacturers in the world committed to deploying such systems in unmanned combat applications, making this acquisition a perfect fit for LIG Nex1’s roadmap and a natural extension of the company’s current development.
Boston Dynamics filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Ghost Robotics over its designs in 2022. Hyundai Motor Company’s Boston Dynamics is one of six robotics companies that signed a pledge not to weaponize their systems.
Ghost Robotics and LIG Nex1 said the agreement will enable them to develop robots for both industrial and defense markets. By combining their strengths, the companies said they will be “positioned to lead the industry in delivering robust, versatile and reliable robotic solutions.”
