Ukrainian defense tech company Huless, developer of the innovative Highline-T tethered drone system, has secured $1 million in funding to further develop its mobile military communication ecosystem. This investment comes from a combination of international angel investors, a grant from the Brave1 initiative, and a loan from a state-owned bank.
Huless’s Highline-T drones are unique in their ability to provide a stable and secure communication platform even in challenging environments. Tethered to a ground control station via a cable, these drones can operate at altitudes of up to 100 meters for up to 4 hours, maintaining functionality even in the face of electronic warfare.
“These funds will allow us to accelerate our market presence and establish a doctrine for the use of mobile communication with variable-altitude antennas,” said Taras Semeniuk, CEO of Huless.
The Highline-T system acts as a variable-altitude antenna, enabling the mounting of various equipment on the drone with power and data transmission through the tether. This capability significantly extends the range of communication and control for reconnaissance and combat operations.
“I am proud every time I learn that our defense teams are attracting millions from private investors. There is belief and reliance on our innovations. We are already creating technologies that no other country has. Therefore, investments in Ukrainian Defense Tech are a contribution to the defense capability of not only Ukraine but also NATO,” stated Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s Minister of Digital Transformation.
This investment highlights the growing recognition of Ukrainian innovation in the defense tech sector. Fedorov emphasized the support system established through Brave1, which helps even small projects secure funding and development resources. “If you know about the needs of the front line and already have a solution that will address them, join Brave1. At the cluster, you will receive comprehensive support – expertise from the military, introductions to investors and other manufacturers, a space where you can test your development, and more. The country needs your ideas.”
Huless’s successful funding round serves as a testament to the potential of Ukrainian defense tech companies to deliver cutting-edge solutions for both domestic and international markets.
