US-based defense technology startup Stellios Technologies has raised $5 million in an oversubscribed pre-seed funding round as it emerged from stealth to develop high-power microwave systems, directed-energy technologies, and advanced power systems.
The funding round included participation from Sofreh Capital, Wave Function Ventures, Cubit Capital, Mana Ventures, Atoms & Bits, Output Capital, and investor Erik Bruckner, alongside other strategic investors.
Founded in 2026 by Dr. Richard Starson, who serves as CEO, Stellios Technologies develops high-energy power systems for defense and industrial applications. Its engineering work focuses on vacuum-electronic devices, including klystrons and gyrotrons, alongside high-voltage power generation, conditioning, and control systems.
The company is developing Stellios Shield, a high-power microwave directed-energy platform intended for counter-drone applications. Its broader technology portfolio also includes Stellios Core, an early-stage compact aneutronic fusion research program, and Stellios Genesis, an AI-native engineering platform supporting design, simulation, and technical development.
Stellios reported securing $2 million in signed customer purchase orders before raising external capital. The company said its pre-seed round closed above its original fundraising target within weeks.
The new funding will support the production and delivery of initial contracted high-power microwave systems, the establishment of US-based research and development and pilot manufacturing facilities, and the expansion of its engineering and leadership teams.
Stellios also plans to strengthen its sales and government business development operations while continuing work on Stellios Genesis and its early compact-fusion research activities.
