EyeROV, a Kochi-based pioneer in marine robotics, has successfully raised ₹13 crore ($1.44 million) in a pre-Series A funding round. The investment was co-led by AWE Funds and Unicorn India Ventures, signaling strong investor confidence in the rapidly evolving underwater drone market.

The startup plans to utilize the fresh capital to intensify its R&D efforts, fast-track the development of new product lines, and expand its footprint across both domestic and international markets.

Expanding the Frontiers of Marine Autonomy

Founded in 2017, EyeROV specializes in high-tech solutions for underwater inspection and surveillance. Their portfolio focuses on two primary categories of autonomous hardware:

• Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs): Tethered underwater robots designed for deep-sea observation and maintenance.

• Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs): Autonomous boats used for hydrographic surveys and surface-level monitoring.

Beyond hardware, EyeROV differentiates itself by integrating AI-based inspection tools and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) payloads, such as sonar imaging and ultrasonic testing. This allows clients to assess the structural integrity of underwater assets without the need for human divers, significantly reducing risk and operational costs.

Market Traction and Strategic Growth

The funding follows a period of significant commercial momentum for the firm. EyeROV has completed over 150 projects for a diverse roster of more than 80 clients, spanning energy, logistics, and defense.

Key clients include industry giants like Tata Power, Adani, ONGC, and Maersk. A major highlight in their recent growth is a substantial ₹47 crore order secured from the Indian Navy, underscoring the startup’s critical role in national defense and maritime security.

Flexible Business Strategy

To maximize market reach, EyeROV employs two distinct business models:

• Direct Product Sales: Selling customized robotic units to organizations for permanent deployment.

• Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS): Providing specialized inspection services on a project basis, making advanced marine tech accessible without large upfront capital expenditures.

With this new infusion of capital, EyeROV is positioned to transition from a niche technology provider to a global player in the subsea inspection industry.

By: Sandhya Bharti