Key Takeaways
- Defense tech startup Epirus raised $250 million in an oversubscribed Series D funding round, boosting its valuation over $1 billion.
- The investment was co-led by 8VC and Washington Harbour Partners, with total funding for Epirus now exceeding $550 million.
- Epirus plans to expand into international markets, enhance its workforce, and establish a simulation training center in Oklahoma.
Funding and Valuation Details
Epirus, a California-based tech startup specializing in anti-drone systems, has successfully secured $250 million in a Series D funding round. This round was described as oversubscribed, underscoring strong investor interest. Previously, the company achieved a valuation of $1.35 billion during its Series C funding, which raised $200 million in 2022. Although specific details on the current valuation were not disclosed, it has been confirmed to exceed $1 billion. In early 2025, Bloomberg reported that Epirus was seeking funding at a lower valuation compared to its Series C.
Investor Participation
The latest funding round was co-led by notable investment firms 8VC and Washington Harbour Partners LP, along with participation from Gaingels and General Dynamics Land Systems, a subsidiary of a major U.S. defense contractor. The substantial funding brings Epirus’ total raised to over $550 million. This financial milestone positions Epirus among a select group of defense tech companies such as Anduril ($28 billion valuation), Shield AI ($5 billion), and Saronic ($4 billion).
Product and Military Contracts
Epirus is recognized for its flagship product, Leonidas, which targets drones using high-powered electromagnetic pulses on the battlefield. The company has secured several contracts with the U.S. military, including a significant $66 million deal with the Army in 2023. Joe Lonsdale, co-founder of Epirus and managing partner at 8VC, praised Leonidas as the “best protection against drone swarms today,” highlighting the critical need for effective defense systems amid rising drone threats.
Future Plans
With the recent influx of capital, Epirus intends to broaden its reach into both international and commercial markets. The company plans to enhance its workforce and supply chain resilience, aiming to fortify its operational capabilities. Additionally, Epirus will establish a new simulation center in Oklahoma to support military training initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to advancing defense technology and training for soldiers.
The content above is a summary. For more details, see the source article.
