Ukrainian-Estonian Defencetech Black Forest Systems raises $400K to scale infantry drone platform

**European Defence Tech Startup Secures Funding for Advanced Infantry Drone Platform** Ukrainian-Estonian firm Black Forest Systems has successfully raised $400,000 from Front Ventures and Hede Capital Partners to advance its innovative infantry drone platform. This investment marks a significant step for the nascent company, founded in 2024, which focuses on developing vertically integrated unmanned systems tailored for soldiers operating in forward combat zones. The funding will be crucial in scaling their operations and bringing their cutting-edge technology to a wider market. The core of Black Forest Systems' offering is its SHADOX platform, a compact reconnaissance drone designed for ease of use and rapid deployment. This system integrates proprietary electronics, secure communications, and control software, prioritizing simplicity and safety for operators with minimal prior drone experience. Its unique protected propeller design allows for safe operation in confined spaces like buildings and trenches, while advanced self-stabilisation eliminates the need for specialized FPV piloting skills, enabling proficiency within 30 minutes of training. This development is particularly impactful for infantry and Special Operations Forces, providing them with advanced unmanned capabilities directly at the squad level. By shifting complexity from the operator to the technology, Black Forest Systems aims to democratize drone usage in modern warfare, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making for every soldier. The company's vertically integrated approach, controlling both hardware and software development, also ensures greater control over performance, security, and supply chain resilience, contributing to European defence technology capacity.