Advancing Autonomous Aerial Warfare Technologies
Deftak is a Ukrainian-Estonian defense technology startup specializing in the development of advanced solutions for autonomous flight, particularly focusing on drone munitions and electronic warfare resilience. Established in Kyiv, Ukraine, Deftak has rapidly gained recognition for its innovative approach to transforming reconnaissance drones into precision strike platforms, even in GPS-denied environments.
Company Overview
Deftak’s multidisciplinary team comprises experienced engineers, IT specialists, scientists, and successful startup entrepreneurs. Many team members have backgrounds in leading technology companies such as Google, Facebook, Megogo, and EPAM. This diverse expertise enables Deftak to develop cutting-edge technologies in electronics, aerodynamics, and algorithms. The company’s primary focus is on creating defense technologies that provide strategic advantages in modern warfare scenarios.
Technological Innovations
Drone Munitions for GPS-Denied Environments
Deftak has developed a new category of weaponry that integrates with various unmanned aerial platforms. This technology allows for the conversion of standard reconnaissance drones into high-precision strike UAVs capable of operating effectively even when GPS signals are unavailable due to electronic warfare (EW) interference. The system has successfully passed combat tests and operates at altitudes up to 10 kilometers. Notably, it is up to ten times more cost-effective than traditional guided munitions, making advanced strike capabilities more accessible.
Advanced Electronics and Algorithms
Leveraging their team’s extensive experience in electronics and programming, Deftak develops sophisticated systems that address modern challenges in autonomous flight. Their solutions incorporate best practices from major IT industry players, ensuring robust and reliable performance in complex operational environments.
Strategic Partnerships and Funding
In May 2025, Deftak secured a €600,000 investment from Darkstar, a European defense investment fund comprising over 20 founders, hackers, and investors from Estonia, Ukraine, Germany, France, and the UK. This funding aims to scale up the production of Deftak’s drone munitions and enhance their capabilities to support Ukrainian and NATO defense forces. Darkstar’s investment underscores the strategic importance of Deftak’s technology in modern warfare.
Achievements and Recognitions
Deftak’s innovative solutions have earned them several accolades:
- Drone Hackathon 1.0 Winners (August 2022): Recognized for their outstanding drone technology solutions.
- Second Place in D3 Hackathon (May 2023): Demonstrated excellence in defense technology development.
- Participation in Army of Drones Startup Accelerator (September 2022 – February 2023): Engaged in a program aimed at advancing drone technologies for defense applications.
- Grants for Small and Medium Businesses (June and October 2023): Received financial support to further their research and development efforts.
- Start-up Accelerator 1991 (Summer 2023): Participated in a program designed to accelerate the growth of promising startups.
These achievements reflect Deftak’s commitment to innovation and their significant contributions to defense technology advancements.
Role in Defense Technology Ecosystem
Deftak is a member of the Techosystem Defense Cluster, a Ukrainian initiative aimed at uniting defense startups to foster collaboration, attract investment, and develop joint testing methodologies. The cluster includes companies such as Aspichi, Bunker UA, Buntar Aerospace, Drill App, Falcons, Farsightvision, HIMERA, Lifesaver, Molfar, and Oko Camera. Participation in this cluster enables Deftak to collaborate with other innovators in the defense sector, enhancing their technological capabilities and market reach.
Future Outlook
Deftak continues to focus on advancing its technologies to meet the evolving demands of modern warfare. Their commitment to developing cost-effective, reliable, and adaptable solutions positions them as a key player in the defense technology sector. With ongoing support from strategic partners and investors, Deftak aims to expand its production capabilities and further integrate its technologies into defense operations, contributing to enhanced security and operational efficiency.
