In a move that underscores the importance of European solidarity in the face of ongoing conflict, Finnish-Ukrainian investment firm Double Tap Investments has announced its first investment in a Ukrainian startup. The recipient, Black Forest Systems, is a developer of drone technology, including the “Verdict” UAV.
The amount of the investment remains undisclosed, but according to Forbes Ukraine, Double Tap’s average investment ranges from $100,000 to $300,000. The fund focuses on high-yield investments in transformative technology sectors, including defense, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
“In addition to supporting DTI’s strategy of helping Ukraine win, this partnership also plays a significant role in implementing the recently published ‘Finnish Unmanned Systems Development Strategy 2030’,” said Jan Saarinen, co-founder of the fund.
Black Forest Systems produces the “Verdict” reconnaissance and strike drone for infantry support. It took six months to develop and is designed to eliminate adversaries during assaults or defense and is designed for use by a regular infantryman with basic technical skills.
Last March, Jan Saarinen visited Kyiv, where he met with over 20 Ukrainian startup companies operating in the field of defense technologies. He noted that Ukrainian startups need investment now, while these should be investments “in opportunities, not in quantity,” because “there is no point in filling warehouses with equipment that will become obsolete in 6 months.”
Double Tap recently announced its official position following the Munich Security Conference. “The message is clear: Europe must do more. It’s not just about politics or politics – it’s about action, resilience and building the future we believe in. Double Tap Investments supports Ukrainian defense technologies, strengthening not only Ukraine, but the entire eastern border of Europe through resilience innovations,” the fund noted.
This investment comes at a critical time, with the potential for Europe and Ukraine to face the Russian aggressor alone, as the US engages in negotiations with the aggressor behind the backs of European and Ukrainian forces. In this context, pan-European consolidation for the security of the continent, where an aggressive mass invasion continues, second only to World War II in scale, is of paramount importance.
Source: DEV.ua
