Latvia-based Origin Robotics, a defence tech startup specialising in making reusable, autonomous drones, has raised €4M in a pre-seed round of funding.
The funding round includes €2.4M in venture capital led by Change Ventures, with contributions from Silicon Roundabout Ventures. An additional €1.6M came from EU grants and support from the Latvian Ministry of Defence.
With this funding, Origin Robotics aims to further its mission of delivering cost-efficient and adaptable solutions to support Europe and NATO allies in addressing future security challenges.
Capital utilisation
Origin Robotics will use the funds to accelerate the production of its BEAK drone, a portable ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) system with precision-guided technology.
Designed to offer high-precision capabilities at a lower cost than traditional systems, BEAK is a budget-friendly yet advanced option for defence organisations and governments.
The funding will also support the company’s team expansion as it prepares for its first commercial agreements and continues innovation in precision-guided airborne technology.
Addressing Europe’s growing security threats
Founded in 2022 by Agris Kipurs and Ilja Nevdah, Origin Robotics claims to combine decades of expertise in unmanned aerial systems with a focus on affordability and rapid development cycles.
This strategy aims to support governments in responding to the evolving dynamics of modern defence.
The company is a founding member of the Military Technology, Drone, and Robotics Association, created alongside partners such as LMT Defence and Edge Autonomy.
Former Latvian Defense Minister Dr Artis Pabriks leads the association, which works to advance military innovation within Latvia and beyond.
Additionally, Origin Robotics is a member of the UK-Latvia Drone Coalition, which brings together 16 NATO countries and is backed by €600 million to drive advancements in drone technology for defence purposes.
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