Counter-UAS Investment Thesis

Counter-UAS is no longer an emerging category. It is becoming permanent infrastructure across critical sites, borders, and forward operations.

Why this matters now

Drone use across recent conflicts has changed how Western forces and critical infrastructure operators think about airspace defence. Procurement is moving from pilots to programmes. The companies that win will be the ones that show up with a real product, real users, and a credible production base.

Where the investable opportunity sits

Detection and tracking, especially passive and multi-sensor
Soft-kill and hard-kill effectors with realistic engagement profiles
Integrated systems that fit existing command and control
Production capacity in NATO-aligned jurisdictions

What I look for

Real end-user adoption, not just pilots
Operator credibility with programme managers
Unit economics that hold without subsidy
Honest export and ITAR posture

https://niklaslindahl.com/thesis/defense-tech/counter-uas