The military technology startup Broswarm, specializing in mine detection, will test its UAVs with AI in Ukraine. Recently, the startup secured a $100,000 investment.
Broswarm is based in Vilnius, Lithuania, and was founded in 2023 by former founder Ernestas Zvaigždinas, a physicist specializing in machine learning programming, Karolis Zvaigždinas, and engineer Mindaugas Talaike.
The startup's goal is to change the global approach to mine detection by utilizing advanced multisensor fusion technology, which can significantly improve the speed, safety, and efficiency of demining operations.
As known, due to the full-scale Russian invasion, the issue of demining in Ukraine is particularly acute.
According to the international organization HALO Trust, as of February 2022, approximately 2 million landmines have been planted in Ukraine, and the World Bank estimates the cost of demining Ukraine at $37 billion. As reported by the government, Ukraine's current demining capabilities include 20 units of equipment and 3000 specialists.
According to estimates, 174,000 square kilometers, or over 30% of Ukraine's territory, may be contaminated with landmines, and Broswarm's technology could help detect them.
Broswarm aims to contribute to demining Ukrainian territories using drones equipped with machine learning technology.
The central element of Broswarm's approach is advanced sensory arrays and multisensor fusion for drones, integrating metal detectors, magnetometers, thermal imaging cameras, and HD cameras.
Moreover, this approach includes a breakthrough sensor developed by Broswarm, which is currently undergoing patenting. It enables the detection of small objects that were previously impossible or extremely difficult to detect. Machine learning algorithms analyze data from the sensors and identify mines with exceptional accuracy and efficiency, even in complex climatic and landscape conditions.
Broswarm has secured $100,000 in funding from the Lithuanian venture fund ScaleWolf. The fund focuses on dual-use technologies that can be utilized for both defense and commercial purposes.
The raised investment allows the Broswarm team to continue developing multisensory sensor technology for remote detection of small mines and other explosive objects.
Before launching the project on the market, Broswarm plans to conduct a series of field tests in Ukraine later this year.
"Despite progress, new mine detection and demining technologies have not yet had a significant impact on the real world. Most modern methods are practically indistinguishable from those used a century ago. We aim to change this status quo. Our goal is to develop mine detectors that are not only economically viable and efficient but also capable of rapid deployment in different regions. We will visit Ukraine later this year to begin implementing our solutions where it matters most," said Ernestas Žvaigždinas, co-founder and CEO of Broswarm.
