The radar gap killing Western defences — and the Berlin chip startup closing it - Tech.eu
AI Analysis
Berlin-based startup Xavveo is adapting fiber-optic sensing technology, originally developed for autonomous driving, to address a critical radar gap in Western air defenses exploited by drones. The company claims its technology can detect drones that evade conventional radar systems, particularly in near-field environments. Demand for this capability is driven by the increasing use of drones in conflicts, such as the 200+ daily drone launches reported in Ukraine.
Key Takeaways
- Xavveo’s technology focuses on closing a 'near-field gap' in radar coverage that allows drones to evade detection.
- The company was founded in 2023 by veterans from Sicoya and Intel.
- The technology is 'dual-use', applicable to perimeter security, infrastructure surveillance, and C-UAV applications.
- Russia is currently launching over 200 drones per day into Ukraine, highlighting the growing drone threat.
- Xavveo is experiencing direct demand from high-profile customers in the defense sector.
Why It Matters
The increasing proliferation of low-cost drones presents a significant challenge to conventional air defense systems. Xavveo’s technology, if effective, could provide a crucial layer of defense against this evolving threat, particularly for protecting critical infrastructure and military assets. This represents a potential shift towards more specialized and adaptable counter-UAS solutions.
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The radar gap killing Western defences — and the Berlin chip startup closing it
Originally developed for autonomous driving, the company’s fibre-optic sensing technology is now being targeted at perimeter security and counter-UAV applications.
Cate Lawrence 5 hours ago
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Today, Berlin startup Xavveo, a deeptech building perception technology based on a proprietary chip, is expanding to tap fast-growing drone-detection/C-UAV, infrastructure surveillance and perimeter security markets with its cutting-edge dual-use platform.
Xavveo’s move follows direct demand from high-profile customers in the defence sector. Cheap, readily-available drones are becoming a central element in modern warfare, and a major threat to Western defences. For example, Russia is launching 200+ drones per day into Ukraine - a record high.
Many drones can evade layered air defence systems, slipping through a near-field gap that conventional radar leaves wide open. Xavveo closes that gap.
I spoke to Xavveo CEO, Dr Sven Otte, to learn more.
Xavveo was founded in Berlin in 2023 by industry veterans and former founders of Sicoya, Dr Sven Otte (CEO) and Dr Stefan Meister (CTO), alongside Intel veteran Dr Ulrich Keil (VP Engineering). All brought extensive experience: Dr Otte previously held leadership roles