Co-founders Florian Seibel and Sven Kruck emphasized the urgent need for sovereign aerial intelligence in modern defense, stating that the new funding will enhance production capacity and facilitate global market expansion.

The increasing demand for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in modern warfare is driving significant investment in defense technology, as evidenced by Quantum Systems' recent funding.

Quantum Systems, a German defense startup known for its AI-driven drone systems, has successfully secured 160 million euros in funding, pushing its valuation beyond 1 billion euros and marking it as the first German company to achieve unicorn status in 2025.

Founded in 2015 by a former Bundeswehr helicopter pilot, the company initially focused on agricultural applications but pivoted to defense technology following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, leading to significant revenue growth.

In addition to its funding success, Quantum Systems has established a service and logistics center in Ukraine and is set to begin local production of its Vector drones for Ukrainian defense forces.

At the OMR Festival, discussions around AI have evolved from hype to a more balanced perspective, acknowledging both its limitations and potential, particularly in marketing and advertising.

In April 2025, Quantum Systems formed a strategic partnership with Ukrainian defense technology firm Frontline, further solidifying its commitment to supporting local defense initiatives.

The company's flagship platform, Vector AI, launched earlier this year, has been combat-tested in Ukraine, providing real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities in challenging environments.

The surge in investment reflects a broader trend in the defense sector, where funding reached $5.2 billion in 2024, indicating a growing interest in dual-use technologies that serve both military and civilian purposes.

A recent Gartner survey revealed that over 75% of CEOs believe AI will transform the economy, yet many express concerns about the AI knowledge within their leadership teams, highlighting the need for enhanced internal training.

Both Quantum Systems and other defense tech startups are well-positioned to benefit from the heightened focus on national security and the modernization of military capabilities across Europe.

The company also offers automated aerial data collection and processing through its Drone Port solution, which is designed to enhance decision-making in defense and various commercial sectors.