In the dynamic landscape of defence technologies, Munich-based Project Q is stepping forward with significant financial backing. The defence tech startup, known for developing intelligence systems that bolster situational awareness and operational efficacy, secured €7.5M in a Seed round. With over €1.2B in assets, notable investor Project A spearheaded this investment round, joined by Expeditions Fund and Superangel. Project Q’s vision involves strengthening data integration across defence operations, a pressing need as militaries navigate the complexities of modern warfare technology.
Q aims to address long-standing challenges in defence, particularly the fragmentation caused by an influx of diverse data from unmanned systems. The increased reliance on tech like UAVs and UGVs has created vast amounts of data, yet integrating these new inputs within pre-existing systems remains challenging. Project Q’s ambition is to bridge these gaps by unifying platforms to make real-time intelligence more actionable. As Uwe Horstmann from Project A noted, the firm is focused on converting complex data into actionable insights.
How will the Seed funding be utilized?
The capital will allow Project Q to accelerate the development of its Q-Open Source Platform (Q-OSP) and support scaling efforts with armed forces across Europe. CEO Leonard Wessendorff highlighted the collaboration with investors who share their mission of strengthening Europe’s technological independence. Wessendorff remarked,
“We’re excited to be partnering with such renowned and like-minded investors who support our mission to strengthen Europe’s technological sovereignty in the security and defence sector through scalable and interoperable solutions.”
The funding will also facilitate team expansion to enhance their collaborative efforts across the continent.
Why focus on software solutions for defence?
Their commitment to an open software architecture empowers the integration of modern technology with pre-existing defence systems. This modular approach supports swift innovation cycles, allowing for improved data-driven decision-making. By incorporating AI tools, Q-OSP facilitates real-time, cross-domain information access that enhances operational capabilities. The platform’s interoperability with legacy systems and commercial tech ensures easy adaptation and operational efficiency.
Founded by Leonard Wessendorff and Frank Christian Sprengel, Project Q benefits from a model they call the Internet of Defence (IoD). The integration model allows for the adaptation of civilian technologies in military applications. Through this approach, Project Q hopes to mitigate challenges in data integration by leveraging existing tools and technologies. Their ongoing collaboration with the public sector since 2024 reflects their commitment to refining their platform for real-world applications.
As with many tech startups, the collaboration and support from industry players are essential for growth and innovation. Investors like Project A and Superangel provide not just capital but also strategic guidance. Project A, known for its Studio initiative, has a robust history of aiding startups in transforming innovative ideas into viable products. Superangel, on the other hand, integrates extensive sector expertise, intending to propel technological solutions within the defence industry.
Key to the company’s future success will be its ability to maintain agility while navigating Europe’s diverse defence landscapes. This agility is embodied in the adaptive nature of the Q-OSP, which aims to simplify the complexities of defence data processing. Moreover, the platform’s alignment with regional and national strategic interests underlines Project Q’s role in enhancing technological sovereignty and operational finesse.
