Firestorm Labs, a San Diego-based startup, has secured $12.5 million in initial seed capital from investors including Lockheed Martin’s venture arm and various other defense-focused investors. The company specializes in manufacturing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) using expeditionary additive manufacturing techniques.
With the new funding, Firestorm Labs plans to expand its workforce and production resources. Lockheed Martin Ventures, which focuses on investing in companies developing advanced technologies, sees autonomy and robotics as one of its key areas of interest. Other investors in Firestorm Labs include Decisive Point, Silent Ventures, and several other prominent venture capital firms.
Firestorm’s chief strategy officer Chad McCoy explains that the defense technology sector has a need for faster and more cost-effective systems. The company aims to disrupt traditional manufacturing timelines and costs with its innovative approach. CEO Dan Magy is excited about the new funding that will allow Firestorm Labs to meet the evolving needs of defense technology.
One of Firestorm’s key manufacturing capabilities is xCell, a semi-automated manufacturing cell that can operate with off-the-grid generators. xCell is designed to produce up to 50 drone units per month in portable containers. The company’s flagship UAV, the Tempest, is 6 feet in length with a 7-foot wingspan and a payload capacity of up to 10 pounds. The Tempest is optimized for missions requiring acoustic stealth, high cruise speed, and extended loitering capability.
