LIG Nex1 has announced the acquisition of a 60% stake in Ghost Robotics, a leading U.S.-based quadruped robot manufacturer, in collaboration with Korea Investment Private Equity (KIPE). The deal, valued at approximately 332 billion won (US$245 million), marks a significant step in expanding LIG Nex1’s presence in the global robotics market.
Ghost Robotics, founded in 2015 in Philadelphia, is renowned for its advanced quadruped robots, particularly the Vision 60. This flagship product is distinguished by its extended battery life, agility on uneven terrain, and rapid movement in water. The modular design of Vision 60 allows for mission-specific equipment integration and easy part replacement, enhancing operational efficiency and reliability.
With products exported to the U.S., U.K., Japan, and other international markets, Ghost Robotics has established a robust global network, indicating substantial growth potential. The acquisition, completed with approval from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), will see LIG Nex1 and KIPE jointly managing the operations through LNGR LLC, a newly established entity for this purpose.
Looking ahead, LIG Nex1 plans to establish a joint research center in Washington, D.C., by the end of the year. This strategic move aims to bolster their entry into both Korean and international robotics markets. The acquisition is poised to position LIG Nex1 at the forefront of innovations in various fields, including navigation, rescue operations, fire monitoring, and military applications, particularly in developing combined manned and unmanned combat systems for the South Korean military.