Quantum Systems, a German drone maker, has secured €180 million in fresh capital, pushing its valuation to €3 billion. This significant funding round, led by Balderton Capital and supported by Peter Thiel, Porsche Automobil Holding SE, and Notion Capital, marks a major leap for the company and reflects a broader shift in Europe’s defence technology landscape.
Once seen as cautious and slow in defence innovation, Germany has rapidly transformed into one of Europe’s most active investment areas. Quantum Systems stands at the forefront of this change, driven by the escalating demand for advanced aerial systems in modern warfare.
The new capital will be used to accelerate production and roll out new counter-drone systems, which are set to hit the market next year. This expansion underscores the growing priority of drone defence across Europe and globally. Quantum Systems’ drones, already in use by Ukrainian forces, have proven essential in front-line surveillance, boosting the company’s revenue and prompting governments to rethink their procurement strategies. Autonomy in aerial systems is no longer optional but a central requirement for modern defence planning.
Florian Seibel, founder of Quantum Systems and a former German army pilot, has been instrumental in shaping the company’s mission. His real-world combat experience has guided the development of drones built for actual battlefield conditions, not just clean test environments. This approach has enabled Quantum Systems to serve both defence and civilian sectors, creating a diverse customer base that spans militaries and industries.
In 2023, Seibel launched Stark Defence, a subsidiary focusing on strike-capable systems, further expanding the company’s reach into offensive technologies. This strategic move positions Seibel as a key player in Europe’s aerial defence evolution.
Quantum Systems operates in an environment shaped by rising geopolitical tensions, with countries seeking more autonomy in defence technology and local production options. The company has emerged as a key supplier ready to meet this growing demand.
Europe’s defence sector is experiencing a phase of rapid acceleration, with companies like Helsing, Stark Defence, and Quantum Systems leading the charge. The Russia-Ukraine war has highlighted the critical role of drones in modern warfare, pushing Europe to invest faster and seek reliable suppliers capable of large-scale production.
Ukrainian drone makers are also expanding abroad, increasing competition and pressuring European firms to innovate. Quantum Systems plans to broaden its product range, invest heavily in manufacturing, and accelerate the development of defence capabilities that match new battlefield needs. These moves aim to secure a long-term leadership position in the global market.
This funding round confirms a significant shift in how investors view defence technology. Once considered too sensitive or slow, the sector now attracts global capital. Quantum Systems represents this pivot, showcasing how European defence innovation has matured and how investor expectations have evolved.
The company’s growth aligns with Europe’s broader security aims, as governments seek advanced tools, trusted suppliers, and modern systems to counter new threats. Quantum Systems is now shaping that future, positioning itself as a key player in the evolving defence technology landscape.