Kyiv-based company Black Forest Systems has received $400,000 in investment from Front Ventures and Hede Capital Partners AB.

SHADOX: Drones for Infantry

Founded in 2024, Black Forest Systems develops vertically integrated unmanned systems and tactical drone platforms for infantry and Special Operations Forces operating in forward positions. Their solutions combine proprietary electronics, secure communications, and control software into vertically integrated platforms that prioritise simplicity, safety, and rapid deployment. The systems are designed so that even soldiers without drone piloting experience can operate them effectively after minimal training.

The company’s flagship system, SHADOX, is a compact reconnaissance platform designed for rapid deployment and effective close-range operations. Its protected propeller design enables safe use inside buildings and trenches. The system features self-stabilisation and does not require FPV piloting skills, allowing operators to become proficient with less than 30 minutes of training. It comes with a proprietary remote control unit and uses encrypted, low-profile communications designed to function in electronic warfare (EW)-contested environments.

Vertical Integration and Autonomy

Unlike traditional FPV systems that rely on specialised external operators, Black Forest Systems focuses on delivering autonomous capability directly to infantry units. By reducing cognitive load and simplifying deployment, the platform allows soldiers to operate advanced drone systems without requiring extensive piloting expertise. A key differentiator is the company’s vertically integrated approach, where both hardware and software are developed in-house. This provides full control over performance, security, supply chain resilience, and long-term scalability into broader unmanned and robotic architectures.

The investment will allow the company to industrialise SHADOX — from engineering refinement to production readiness and structured military deployment.