The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and Singapore’s Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) have backed several startups developing cutting-edge counter-UAS technology. As part of their joint challenge, companies received funding to help enhance maritime security and military operations. This marks the first initiative to come out of a Memorandum of Understanding for Defense Innovation Cooperation between Singapore and the U.S. Department of Defense.

Mistral secures $80,000 for Victus C2 Gateway

Among the awardees, Mistral Inc. secured $80,000 for its Victus C2 Gateway solution, an all-in-one system that detects, tracks and neutralizes unauthorized drones near ships operating close to shore. The technology integrates radio frequency sensors with both kinetic and non-kinetic countermeasures in a cost-effective, open-architecture package. This means it is designed to work seamlessly with existing defense systems, avoiding proprietary silos and boosting adaptability for future missions.

“The challenge provided access to defense experts and optimizing our C-UAS Victus C2 Gateway system’s open architecture for scalability and future mission adaptability,” explained Yoav Bana, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Mistral. “Operational testing proved our solution’s effectiveness in addressing real-world maritime security challenges, enhancing our credibility as a trusted vendor.

More funding for counter-drone solutions

In addition to Mistral, other companies securing funding for their counter-UAS innovations include:

  • Black River Systems Company, Inc. – Developed its Ninja C-UAS solution, optimized for port and shipboard protection.
  • Aurelius Systems, Inc. – Created an edge-deployed directed energy system to counter small UAS (Group 1 and 2) threats, protecting warfighters in contested environments.

These companies were part of a group that received a total of $130,000 in awards.

By leveraging commercial advancements, the initiative accelerates the deployment of effective counter-drone solutions, enhancing security for military operations in contested environments.

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