Xtend, Israeli AI drone startup, has raised an additional US$30 million in its series B funding round, bringing the total to US$100 million.

The investment was co-led by Aliya Capital Partners and Protego Ventures, with participation from Claltech, Union-Tech Ventures, Chartered Group, and TAU Ventures.

Founded in 2018, Xtend recently opened a headquarters and manufacturing site in Tampa, Florida.

Ross Kestin, CEO of Aliya Capital Partners, joined Xtend’s board of directors as part of the investment agreement.

Xtend’s tactical robotics are used by the US and Israeli militaries, as well as in Europe, Singapore, and the UK.

The company focused entirely on defense operations during the Swords of Iron conflict, supplying drones for military use.

The new funds will go toward scaling production, expanding globally, and boosting R&D.

Xtend currently has 120 employees across Israel, the US, and Singapore.

It also plans to grow its development team in Israel to advance its tech capabilities.

🔗 Source: Calcalist

🧠 Food for thought

1️⃣ Defense robotics defies broader funding slowdown amid geopolitical tensions

XTEND’s $30 million extension to its Series B demonstrates how defense-focused robotics companies are bucking the trend of funding challenges in the broader robotics sector.

While robotics funding overall has declined from a peak of $14.7 billion in 2021 to approximately $6.4 billion in 2024, companies with defense applications are still attracting significant capital 1.

The funding environment for robotics has become increasingly concentrated, with larger investments going to fewer companies, creating particular challenges for growth-stage startups not operating in strategic sectors 2.

XTEND’s successful fundraising amid this selective environment highlights how geopolitical tensions are driving investor confidence in companies that can address immediate national security needs.