US-Ukrainian startup Bavovna develops AI-powered navigation systems for uncrewed vehicles to operate in GPS-denied environments. The company has raised $2.7 million in seed-stage funding from Presto Tech Horizons, Network VC, and Allied VC to enhance its products and expand in defense and commercial sectors.
- Founded in 2022, Bavovna develops AI-powered navigation systems for unmanned vehicles (UVs) to operate in GPS-denied and electronic warfare-threatened environments.
- The company combines modular hardware with advanced AI and machine learning to deliver robust Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) solutions for aerial, surface, and subsurface platforms.
- Bavovna’s solution integrates hardened core electronics for electronic warfare protection and uses sensor fusion for reliable data processing, ensuring accurate navigation in challenging environments.
- The startup's platform-agnostic, modular system is adaptable to various vehicle classes, including Class II aerial platforms, and offers a flexible, scalable solution for both defense and commercial UV operators.
Details of the deal
- The $2.7 million seed round was led by Presto Tech Horizons, a Prague-based venture capital firm that contributed $1.7 million. In June, Presto TechHorizons launched a €150 million fund to support security and defence tech startups from NATO countries.
“We see this investment as a strategic partnership between Presto Tech Horizons and Bavovna. Presto’s network and company-building know-how align perfectly with Bavovna’s capabilities to bring the speed of front-line innovations to dual-use applications. At the same time, we see Bavovna as a valuable resource for other startups in our portfolio," Partner at Presto Tech Horizons, Premysl Rubes, stated.
- The funding round also saw participation from Network VC, an American venture fund and platform for a decentralized ecosystem of independent VC professionals, as well as Allied VC, a Canadian venture capital firm. Additional backing came from angel investors, including Premysl Rubes, Matej Luhový, and Vojta Rocek.
- Bavovna AI will use the funds to scale NDAA-compliant production in North America and the EMEA, enhance its existing product lines, and explore new opportunities in both the defense and commercial sectors.
