Bavovna team: Field testing of the system first implementation for VTOL
Presto Tech Horizons, a groundbreaking investment fund, has made its first portfolio investments, spotlighting cutting-edge technologies in defense, aerospace, and automation. Supported by a strategic alliance between Presto Ventures and the industrial giant Czechoslovak Group (CSG), the fund focuses on fostering innovation within NATO countries and their allies, with an emphasis on enhancing global security and defense capabilities.
New Portfolio Companies with Dual-Use Potential
Among the fund’s initial investments are three standout companies at the forefront of defense and aerospace technologies:
Vidar Systems, a company specializing in AI-driven acoustic systems, develops portable devices for real-time detection of artillery, vehicles, and even troop gunfire. This innovative military-grade technology is designed to enhance battlefield awareness and support decision-making for NATO allies, including Ukraine’s armed forces. Vidar’s advanced systems integrate seamlessly with modern battlefield management tools, enabling swift response and enhanced defense measures.
Bavovna, a US-Ukrainian startup, is advancing autonomous drone navigation in environments compromised by GPS signal loss or electronic warfare. Bavovna’s hybrid AI technology is pivotal for unmanned vehicles (UVs), with applications ranging from military defense to commercial last-mile drone deliveries. The company is already active in military operations, using Ukraine as a proving ground to counteract anti-drone technologies.
Tur.ai focuses on robotic process automation (RPA), offering enterprise-grade AI tools that optimize operations for sectors like logistics, finance, and telecommunications. While not defense-specific, Tur.ai’s automation capabilities contribute to operational efficiency, which can indirectly support defense logistics and infrastructure.
Strengthening Defense Capabilities
With the backing of Czechoslovak Group, a major player in defense and industrial technology, Presto Tech Horizons is positioned to lead Europe’s investment in defense startups. The partnership with CSG brings together industry expertise, financial power, and a commitment to strengthening Western security frameworks.
David Chour, Vice Chairman of CSG, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: “Investing in startups that develop groundbreaking defense technologies is a critical step toward safeguarding the future. This is not only about innovation but also about ensuring the long-term security of the Western world.”
Lucie Bresova Joins Presto Tech Horizons
Adding to the momentum, Lucie Bresova, a seasoned executive renowned for her leadership at Kiwi.com, has joined the fund as a partner. Bresova’s experience in scaling companies and navigating complex markets will be instrumental in guiding Presto’s portfolio companies, particularly those in the defense sector. Her vision for nurturing startups into global leaders aligns perfectly with the fund’s mission to support the next wave of defense innovations.
Looking Ahead: A Focus on Emerging Defense Technologies
Presto Tech Horizons is setting its sights on further investments that integrate AI, quantum computing, and advanced industrial robotics for defense applications. Projects under consideration include an AI system for securing rail transport and quantum algorithms to solve cryptography and logistical challenges – crucial for modern defense infrastructures.
As the world faces increasing security threats, Presto Tech Horizons is at the forefront of ensuring that NATO countries and their allies are equipped with the best technologies to defend against emerging risks.
Source: Presto Ventures, Czechoslovak Group
Edited: Katerina Urbanova
Photo credit: Presto Ventures
