Berlin’s Xavveo Targets Drone Defence Gap With Photonic Sensors
Berlin-based startup Xavveo is deploying advanced photonic sensor technology to address shortcomings in traditional radar systems, enabling more effective detection of modern drone threats. Combining fibre-optic sensing with central neural network-powered processing, Xavveo's platform responds to growing demand from the European defence sector for more resilient and precise autonomous systems. The company’s solutions bridge the near-field detection gap in current perimeter security and air defence.
RSI Europe’s Niche Approach Drives Success in Defence Tech
RSI Europe, a Lithuania-based defence technology startup, opted to focus on remote initiation systems rather than competing in the crowded military drone market. Their rapid and specialised approach, emphasising speed and real-world operational needs, led to profitability in the first year and growing adoption in Ukraine.
Online Oceans Secures £4M to Expand Autonomous Maritime Security Fleets
UK-based Online Oceans has raised £4 million to scale its autonomous surface vessels and supporting software, targeting maritime security applications. The funding will support manufacturing and deployment as the company expands within defence and commercial sectors.
Stendr Raises $5.4M to Advance AI-Based Drone Defence Systems
Norwegian defence technology company Stendr has secured $5.4 million in pre-seed funding. The company will use the funds to develop AI-powered drone defence systems focused on European sovereignty. The round draws participation from global investors and supports expansion of Stendr's engineering capabilities.
Germany and Ukraine Launch Mass Production of AI-Guided Strike Drones
Germany and Ukraine have formalized a major cooperation agreement to begin mass production of AI-guided autonomous strike drones. The Auterion Airlogix Joint Venture will manufacture thousands of systems annually in Germany, leveraging combat-proven Ukrainian technology and European industrial capacity. This development marks Europe's largest autonomous drone order to date and strengthens defence technology cooperation within the continent.
Kelluu Secures €15M to Advance Autonomous Airship Surveillance
Finnish deeptech company Kelluu has raised €15 million in Series A funding to expand its autonomous airship intelligence platform. The investment, led by the NATO Innovation Fund, will support the development and deployment of Kelluu's hydrogen-powered unmanned fleet for both defence and civilian uses.
Ukrainian Tech Ecosystem in 2025: Defence, AI, and Investment Trends
Ukraine's tech ecosystem in 2025 is defined by robust early-stage activity and concentrated investment, with AI and defence companies playing dominant roles. While total funding was propelled by Grammarly's $1 billion raise, most startups operate with smaller, early-stage rounds, reflecting both resilience and structural challenges. The sector demonstrates a clear focus on deeptech and AI applications, especially in security, communications, and automation.
STV Group and Post-Quantum Test Quantum-Safe Drones for Military Use
Czech defence technology company STV Group and UK-based Post-Quantum have successfully tested quantum-safe drones equipped with advanced encryption for military operations. The new platform uses post-quantum cryptography to safeguard communications, addressing both current and future security threats posed by quantum computing. Integration across European and allied defence programmes is planned.
French Startup EGIDE Secures €8M for AI-Driven Interceptor Systems
French defence technology company EGIDE has closed an €8 million seed round to develop electrically-propelled interceptors and an AI-supported defence platform. The funding aims to bolster Europe’s capacity to defend against rapidly evolving aerial threats, particularly mass-produced drones. EGIDE will use the capital to accelerate product development and expand its engineering team.
Black Forest Systems Raises $400K to Scale Infantry Drone Platform
Ukrainian-Estonian startup Black Forest Systems has secured $400,000 in funding to advance its infantry-focused reconnaissance drone platform, SHADOX. The investment comes from Front Ventures and Hede Capital Partners, supporting the company's mission to deliver accessible unmanned systems to frontline soldiers.