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German drone startup Quantum nears €150 million funding round, set to triple valuation

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German drone manufacturer Quantum Systems is nearing completion of a €150 million ($175 million) funding round that could triple its valuation to €3 billion, according to a report from Manager Magazin. The surge in investor interest follows heightened demand for drone defense technologies amid rising security incidents at airports and critical infrastructure sites.

Quantum’s latest model, the “Jaeger”, is specifically designed to intercept and neutralize hostile drones, addressing growing threats linked to unauthorized aerial activity — some of which European authorities suspect may be part of hybrid warfare efforts by Russia.

The Munich-based startup plans to use the fresh capital to expand through acquisitions of smaller technology firms and startups, strengthening its technological edge in autonomous flight, sensor integration, and drone countermeasures.

According to Manager Magazin, Quantum expects revenues of €300 million in 2025, rising to over €500 million in 2026, and is already planning a second, larger funding round in 2026 that could push its valuation up to €5 billion.

Founded in 2015, Quantum Systems has quickly become one of Europe’s leading drone technology firms, supplying military, defense, and security agencies. The company did not respond to a request for comment from Reuters.

The report coincides with Germany’s decision to grant police new authority to shoot down rogue drones, a move reflecting growing concerns over drone-related disruptions at European airports.

Toyota testing small drone system to aid off-road driving

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Toyota Motor is exploring the use of small drones to enhance safety and visibility for vehicles operating on rough or unpaved terrain, according to a filing with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The proposed system would help drivers gain a better view of their surroundings — including obstacles beneath or around the vehicle — allowing them to plan safer routes. “At times, operators may fly a drone above the treeline to capture terrain videos,” Toyota noted in its letter to the FAA. Most drone flights would remain close to the vehicle, the filing said.

The initiative coincides with a U.S. Transportation Department proposal to expand drone operations beyond the operator’s line of sight, a step expected to accelerate commercial drone applications. Toyota submitted comments on the proposal, revealing its ongoing research into the technology.

While the company has not confirmed any product rollout, a spokesperson stated that Toyota “is constantly working on new technologies in various fields” but has “no product plans to announce at this time.”

The Transportation Department said relaxing current drone restrictions could significantly expand their use in manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics, including the delivery of essential medical supplies.