Over the past few years, the US has become a hub of DefenceTech, and for good reason.
The country has been heavily involved in some of the world’s recent geopolitical tensions, including playing a big part in the end of the Israel-Hamas war and mediating tensions in Iran.
But the US isn’t taking any chances. In fact, since these wars began, the country has seen a huge wave of innovation and funding in the sector.
When it comes to investment in DefenceTech, this doubled to $17.9 billion in 2025, up from just $7.3 billion in 2024. A huge jump. (Defence News).
What Does DefenceTech Involve?
Now you’re probably thinking, what actually counts as DefenceTech?
Well, the sector has a lot variety, but some of the startups operating in this area include:
- Autonomous vehicles that are able to patrol areas and fight on battlefields without being operated by humans on the ground.
- Intelligence software and detection systems, designed to alert militaries to threats before it’s too late.
- Logistics platforms designed with military operations on mind, helping them manage logistics and procurement.
- Cybersecurity companies that disrupt enemy communications and devices.
So, who are some of the US companies innovating in this space? We take a look…
Epirus
Epirus is a California-based company that powers military operations by using weaponised electromagnetic interference.
Through their technology, they can improve (or block) military communication and track incoming threats, helping protect vehicles from drones. Their pods can be deployed on any vehicle, giving armies even greater coverage whenever they need it.
Anduril Industries
Anduril Industries is a defence technology company that creates autonomous systems that mix robotics and AI.
Their suite of products include ghost, a device that can sense incoming threats, barracuda, unmanned military planes and lattice, a system that connects data across all services.
Shield AI
Shield AI is a San-Diego based company that designs tech to help protect military personnel and civilians.
The company uses AI to create self-driving pilots for drones, planes and robots, meaning militaries can fight on the battlefield without putting lives at risk.
Saronic Technologies
Saronic Technologies is a defence startup based in Austin, Texas that focuses on creating autonomous surface vessels for the US Navy and allied forces.
By creating these AI maritime devices, the company allows countries to operate better surveillance on the sea, and explore enemy waters without putting lives at risk.
Skydio
Skydio is a US drone company that creates drones capable of flying in complicated environments, even without a pilot.
Whilst their drones aren’t only for defence, this has become one of their main use cases, however it has also been used by firefighting teams and police departments to help with real-time situation monitoring.
Chaos Industries
Chaos Industries is a defence company that has developed specialist surveillance systems, allowing the military to be informed of any incoming threats.
By providing an early warning, it increases a military’s reaction time by up to 10 minutes.
Overland AI
Overland AI has become popular for its off-road autonomous vehicle tech. By creating both hardware and software to improve the usage of AVs, militaries are better able to navigate difficult terrains without human drivers.
Within their tech stack is an AI-driven software for driving vehicles, a system for managing them and hardware designed to travel across a number of different environments.
Perseus Defense
Persius Defense is a Y Combinator-backed startup that has created affordable micro-missiles to help neutralise any drone threats.
By creating micro-missiles that can be guided to protect military personnel, it acts almost like Israel’s Iron Dome, but on a smaller scale.
