DefendEye
Warsaw, Poland · StartupDefendEye is a Kraków-based deep-tech startup building fully autonomous, AI-powered tube-launched UAV systems for dual-use perimeter security and defence. Founded in 2023 by serial entrepreneur James Buchheim with a multinational team, its core product is a sub-250g drone stored in a sealed launch tube that deploys in under ten seconds via motion-triggered radar — with no trained pilot — climbs to altitude, performs AI human detection in milliseconds, and streams encrypted video to a cloud command centre before returning autonomously. The system is dual-use by design: civilian applications cover search-and-rescue and critical-infrastructure inspection, while security variants address perimeter breaches, border surveillance and active-shooter response. With an IP65 airframe, night-vision camera, onboard neural processor and optional Starlink connectivity, DefendEye targets NATO-facing procurement and is building an NDAA-compliant supply chain. It raised ~PLN 4.8M (~€1.1M) in a May 2025 seed round led by Polish deep-tech VC Hard2beat with Sunfish Partners, to finalise its commercial product and begin EU and US certification.