INLEAP Photonics secures €20 million for laser drone defense

German deep-tech company INLEAP Photonics has secured approximately 20 million euros in a seed funding round led by UVC Partners. The investment includes participation from several European investors, such as HTGF, Balnord, Sentris, and Scale Capital.

The capital is intended to expand mass production capabilities, increase manufacturing and testing capacity, and support international expansion. This follows growing demand for laser-based drone defense systems to protect critical infrastructure. The company is already collaborating with the German Federal Ministry of Defence and the Bundeswehr's Cyber Innovation Hub. Additionally, INLEAP Photonics has established a strategic partnership with STARK Defence to provide counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) solutions.