African defense tech startup Terra Industries raises $52M
It turns out that it’s not only U.S. and European companies pushing the concept of autonomous warfare. Nigeria-based Terra Industries is a defense technology startup that develops automated security systems for governments and infrastructure operators, and it has just raised $52 million. Announced today, the raise is reportedly the largest-ever seed funding round by an […] The post African…
Nigerian defense tech startup Terra Industries has secured $52 million in its largest-ever seed funding round, marking a significant milestone for an African startup. The investment was led by Norleo Space Investments and angel investor Grant Gordon, alongside existing backers such as 8VC, Silent Ventures, Nova Global, Belief Capital and SV Angel.
Founded in 2024 by Nathan Nwachuku and Maxwell Maduka, Terra Industries specializes in developing autonomous security systems for governments and infrastructure operators. These systems comprise long- and mid-range drones, interceptor drones, sentry towers, and unmanned ground vehicles, all connected through their ArtemisOS software for real-time threat detection and autonomous mission-planning.
Although relatively new, Terra Industries' systems have already been deployed in multiple African countries, securing critical infrastructure valued at over $11 billion. The CEO emphasizes that Terra's autonomous systems are tailored to the "Global South," enhancing protection for developing and less-developed nations in Africa, Latin America, and beyond.
The startup currently operates two manufacturing facilities: a 15,000-square-foot Pax-1 factory in Abuja, Nigeria, and a larger 34,000-square-foot Pax-2 facility in Ghana. The latter, expected to become Africa's largest drone factory, is not yet fully operational but will commence production by the end of the year, capable of manufacturing around 50,000 units.
Despite a primary focus on the Global South, Terra Industries plans to expand its reach into the West with the new funding. The company intends to open a London office to better engage with institutions shaping global defense and infrastructure markets. This strategic move will also bolster operations and AI talent while maintaining its manufacturing base in Africa.
Terra Industries also aims to expand manufacturing into the Middle East, South America, and South Asia, as well as grow its engineering and business development teams. Since its inception, the startup has raised a total of $33.75 million, including a $11.75 million round in January and a $22 million follow-on round a month later.
Terra Industries has also signed a memorandum of understanding with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria to establish a joint venture for domestic defense system production.
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