Arondite, a UK-based AI startup founded by former British Army officer Will Blyth, has raised $10M to enhance human-machine collaboration in defence operations.
The Seed round was led by Index Ventures, following a $2.25M pre-seed round led by Concept Ventures and Creator Fund.
This investment underscores the growing interest in defence technology, with venture capital funding in the sector reaching $2.5B in 2024
Arondite's platform aims to address the challenge of integrating various autonomous systems, such as drones and ground robots, into a cohesive operational framework. The software serves as a 'connective tissue,' enabling operators to manage multiple systems through a single interface. This approach enhances situational awareness and operational control, crucial for missions where timely and accurate information is vital.
The technology has practical applications in scenarios like minefield clearance and counter-intrusion efforts, where coordinated deployment of autonomous systems can improve safety and efficiency. By providing a unified platform for diverse hardware, Arondite facilitates safer deployment of autonomous tools, reducing risks associated with fragmented systems.
Will Blyth, CEO and co-founder of Arondite, draws from his military experience to inform the company's mission. He emphasised the importance of accessible and connected systems in critical situations:
“During my military career, having the right information at the right time was often a matter of life or death. Defence systems that don’t talk to each other make operations far more dangerous. My vision for Arondite was to create the software and AI tools to connect up defence hardware and give people working on the front lines the information, oversight and understanding they need to make use of machines and AI, without compromising safety and control.”
Hannah Seal, Partner at Index Ventures, highlighted the team's unique qualifications:
“We’re thrilled to support Will and Rob on their journey to enable true human-machine teaming in the autonomous age. With their rare combination of real-world experience, technical expertise and startup acumen, they are uniquely equipped to change how people interact with robots while ensuring they safely retain control over critical decisions.”
As defence organizations increasingly rely on autonomous systems, Arondite's platform offers a scalable solution to integrate and manage these technologies effectively. The company's approach aligns with the broader trend of increased investment in defence tech, signaling a shift towards more interconnected and intelligent systems in military operations.
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