Ghost Robotics Acquired by Korean Defense Firm for $240M

Korean aerospace and defense company LIG Nex1 has acquired a majority share in quadrupedal robot developers Ghost Robotics, considered a Boston Dynamics competitor.

LIG Nex1 has acquired a 60% controlling stake in the Philadelphia-based robotics firm for $240 million, valuing the company at $400 million.

The companies plan to combine their expertise and resources to further develop autonomous robotic solutions.

Ghost Robotics will be able to leverage LIG Nex1's defense technologies and manufacturing facilities to scale the production of its Vision 60 and Spirit 40 robot dogs.

“Our acquisition of a majority stake in Ghost Robotics aligns perfectly with our vision to lead the future of defense and security technology,” said Shin IckHyun, LIG Nex1's CEO. “We expect this acquisition will serve as momentum for both companies to grow together based on our leading-edge technological capabilities and close cooperation.”

Founded in 2015, Ghost Robotics develops quadrupedal robots designed to maneuver across uneven terrain.

Unlike Boston Dynamics, which has pivoted from defense to focus on developing industrial solutions, Ghost Robotics specializes in defense and security applications.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection deployed Ghost Robotics quadrupedal robots to patrol the U.S.-Mexico border in 2022. The company has previously equipped its robots with firearms.

Related:U.S. Border Patrol is Going to the (Robot) Dogs

LIG Nex1 has been working on unmanned systems of its own, including reconnaissance and strike drones as well as wearable robots like exoskeletons to work with other protective gear and tools in missions.

The companies said they will now work together to develop robotic systems for both industrial and defense markets.

Business Korea reports that LIG Nex1 will launch a joint research center in Washington, D.C. by the end of the year with plans to eventually launch new products aimed at industries including fire monitoring and navigation and rescue.

"We are thrilled to partner with LIG Nex1 and embark on this exciting new chapter," said Gavin Kenneally, Ghost Robotics’ co-founder and CEO. "Their investment and strategic guidance will accelerate our growth and enhance our ability to deliver groundbreaking robotic solutions to a wider range of industries and applications."

Ghost Robotics was previously sued by Boston Dynamics, alleging the unauthorized use of core technologies from the Spot quadruped robot in its Vision 60 and Spirit 40 robot dogs.

The dispute was widened by Boston Dynamics earlier this year after the Hyundai-owned company filed an additional patent infringement complaint in February.

Related:Boston Dynamics Sues Ghost Robotics Over Robot Dog Design