Ground A raises €9.1M for mobile laser drone defense system

German defense technology startup Ground A GmbH has successfully demonstrated a mobile laser weapon system designed to combat drones. The system, known as the GA 1000, uses concentrated light to identify and neutralize drones, including small FPV models, by causing them to ignite or crash. During tests in Berlin, the system demonstrated the ability to track targets with high precision using four optical sensors.

Ground A has raised 9.1 million euros in a pre-seed funding round led by Vsquared Ventures, with participation from investors including Quantum Systems, GRIF, and Robin Capital. The company plans to begin serial production of the GA 1000 starting next year. The technology aims to provide a safer alternative to kinetic interception methods, such as firearms or interceptor drones, which pose risks in densely populated areas or near critical infrastructure.