Company profile
Askari Defense
Askari Defense builds hand-launched autonomous interceptors for counter-UAS missions. Its Rift Alpha and Rift Bravo systems target frontline operators with...
Facts
- Segment
- DEFENSE
- Country
- US
- Headquarters
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Founded
- 2024
- Categories
- Defense robotics
- Focus
- Counter-UAS interceptors
- Website
- https://askaridefense.com/
About Askari Defense
Askari Defense develops compact kinetic interceptors that can be carried and launched by an individual operator. Rift Alpha uses a lightweight, additively manufactured airframe, while Rift Bravo folds into a smaller man-portable package. Both systems use onboard computer vision to acquire and close on a target after launch, reducing the need for the operator to manually fly the complete engagement.
The interceptor is one layer in a counter-UAS workflow: external observation or the operator identifies the hostile aircraft, the Rift system is launched, and onboard guidance controls the terminal approach. Askari prioritises low unit cost, portability and production speed so interceptors can be distributed close to frontline units as well as fixed air-defence sites. A USD 9 million seed round announced in 2026 is being used to expand manufacturing against an existing defence order book.
Market context
PRODUCTION
Summary
Type: Counter-UAS company
Core: Rift interceptors
Function: Interception
Audience: Defense