TechCrunch Startup News European VC breaks taboo by investing in pure defense tech from Ukraine’s war zones
Jul 10, 2025
Ragnar Sass, co-founder and general partner at Darkstar, discusses the groundbreaking shift in venture capital focused on defense technology amid the Ukraine conflict. He shares insights on how Darkstar aims to raise €25 million to connect innovative startups with military needs. The conversation highlights the importance of battle-tested products in enhancing European defense capabilities, breaking traditional investment taboos, and the unique opportunities presented by the ongoing war in Ukraine.
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Darkstar's Pure Defense Focus
- Darkstar VC is uniquely focused on purely military tech, unlike most requiring dual-use applications.
- They help startups from Ukraine and Europe by supporting compliance and market entry in NATO countries.
Sass's Shift to Defense Investing
- Ragnar Sass shifted from supporting SaaS startups to investing in defense after his experience aiding Ukraine.
- His first defense investment was an Estonian drone startup, marking a pivotal career change.
Baltics Lead Defense Investment
- Baltic states lead in defense tech investment due to their proximity to Russia and Soviet history.
- This urgency is spreading across Europe as military tech becomes a critical investment sector.