UA1 invested $6.5 million in Y Combinator graduate Albacore for the development of underwater drones.

American startup Albacore raised $6.5 million for the development of underwater drones

The American startup Albacore, known for its development of autonomous underwater vehicles, announced the raising of $6.5 million in investment during the latest financing round led by Outlander VC. Investors include Ukrainian UA1, as well as Brave Capital, D3, Alumni Ventures, and others.

Albacore, which successfully completed this year’s Y Combinator program, specializes in the creation of long-lasting unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). The company’s first product, Ghostfin, is a mini-submarine measuring 2.5 meters in length and weighing 180 kg. It can carry up to 110 kg of cargo and has a range of 1,000 nautical miles, allowing it to be launched from various points. The company is led by Dante Weisbrod and John Huddleston, who have experience in implementing unmanned systems and defense technology projects, with a team of 17 people.

Investor interest in Albacore is explained by the growing demand for autonomous systems in the defense industry, the limited number of competitors in the field of underwater technology, and the company’s focus on long-range drones. Ghostfin has already undergone water trials with loads, and a demonstration for the US Department of Defense is scheduled for January 2026. Serial production of the mini-submarines is set to begin in mid-2026.