Daria Solovieva
UKRAINE
Ukraine Accelerates Deployment of 15,000 Combat Robots to Frontlines in 2025
Ukraine is rapidly scaling its deployment of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), aiming to field 15,000 combat robots by the end of 2025 to counter Russian forces and reduce soldier casualties. This push follows a surge in defense contracts, with $150 million allocated in early 2025 alone for domestically produced systems like the “Lyut” robot soldier, which features a 7.62mm machine gun and day/night targeting capabilities. [Source: United24]
Netherlands Pledges €500M to Boost Ukraine’s Drone Warfare Capabilities
The Netherlands has committed €500 million to Ukraine’s “Drone Line” project, a key initiative aimed at enhancing the country’s drone warfare capabilities against Russian aggression. Launched in March 2025 under President Zelenskyy, the project focuses on equipping specialized units with advanced UAVs, electronic warfare systems, and other critical tools to create a deep battlefield “kill zone.” This funding is part of the Netherlands’ broader €2 billion support package, underscoring its steadfast commitment to Ukraine’s defense and technological innovation. [Source: Militarnyi]
Dutch VC Firm Launches €20M Fund to Boost Ukrainian Defense Tech Innovation
Dutch venture firm NUNC Capital has unveiled a €20 million fund to invest in Ukraine’s defense technology startups, aiming to bridge European defense markets with Ukraine’s battlefield-driven innovation. The initiative focuses on key areas like electronic warfare, unmanned systems, smart materials, and GPS-independent navigation, addressing critical gaps in European defense capabilities. By establishing a Forward Operating Base in Ukraine, NUNC Capital seeks to accelerate local startups and strengthen strategic autonomy for Europe. [Source: Dev.ua]
LATVIA
Latvia to Host Production of Short-Range Air Defense Missiles
Estonian defense firm Frankenburg Technologies will establish a manufacturing and R&D facility in Latvia to produce short-range surface-to-air missiles designed to counter drones, including Shahed models used by Russia. The facility, supported by a partnership with Riga Technical University and the Latvian Ministry of Defense, aims to strengthen Latvia’s defense capabilities and create new jobs. With testing nearing completion, production is expected to scale by late 2025, positioning Latvia as a key player in Europe’s defense industry. [Source: Labs of Latvia]
Latvia to Host Big Data from Space 2025 Conference
The Big Data from Space (BiDS) 2025 conference will take place in Riga, Latvia, from September 29 to October 3, bringing together global experts from science, industry, and policy to address challenges like climate change and sustainability through space-based data. Organized by the European Space Agency (ESA) and other key institutions, the event will feature workshops, exhibitions, and discussions on cutting-edge technologies such as Earth observation, AI, and big data analytics. This marks a significant opportunity for Latvia to showcase its contributions to the global space sector. [Source: Latvia’s Ministry of Education and Science]
ESTONIA
Stargate Hydrogen Secures €11M Series A Funding to Scale Green Hydrogen
Tallinn-based greentech startup Stargate Hydrogen has raised €11 million in Series A funding, backed by SmartCap, Giga, and UG Investments. The company specializes in ceramic-based alkaline electrolysers that reduce energy consumption and costs, making green hydrogen more accessible for industries like steel and chemicals. With this funding, Stargate plans to scale manufacturing, expand testing capabilities, and form strategic partnerships to advance its innovative hydrogen production technology.[Source: Vestbee]
POLAND
Doctor.One Acquires Doctor Dok to Enhance AI-Driven Patient Care
Warsaw-based digital healthcare platform Doctor.One has acquired Polish AI healthcare startup Doctor Dok to integrate AI-powered tools for better care path management and patient support. This acquisition will enable Doctor.One to provide more personalized, continuous care through asynchronous communication, expanding its services across Spain, the UK, and Germany. [Source: Vestbee]
Polish Bioinformatics Startup Intelliseq Secures $4.8M to Expand Genomic Tech
Intelliseq, a Polish bioinformatics company specializing in automated genome analysis, has raised $4.8 million in funding led by Vinci HiTech, with support from Unfold.vc and private investors. Founded in 2014, the company develops tools like its flagship platform, iFlow, to streamline genetic diagnostics. The funding will support Intelliseq’s expansion into the U.S. market, enhance predictive algorithms, and drive the transition from traditional medicine to preventive healthcare. [Source: Vestbee]
CEE REGION
CEE Startups Raised €2.3B in VC Funding in 2024, Scaling Challenges Persist
Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) startups raised €2.3 billion in venture capital in 2024, with 74% of funding directed toward scaleups. Despite consistent growth, the region faces scaling challenges, as nearly half of scaleups relocate—often to the U.S.—for better market access. Poland leads in early-stage funding, Estonia excels in breakout-stage investments, and Ukraine dominates late-stage funding, highlighting uneven development across the region. Key sectors include AI, fintech, and enterprise software, while deeptech and regional disparities remain hurdles for future growth.[Source: Vestbee]
Add comment