Malmö-based startup Valkyr Defense Systems has introduced HILDR, a new close-range defense system designed to counter small, fast-moving drones in the final moments before impact.
As the use of drones has surged in modern warfare, most notably following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, defense actors have increasingly highlighted gaps in protection against threats operating at very short range. HILDR is designed to address this challenge, functioning as a last line of defense when other air defense layers have already been bypassed.
Rather than replacing existing systems, HILDR is intended to complement current air defense solutions, particularly in scenarios where reaction time is extremely limited. The system is modular and sensor-based, and can be deployed across a range of environments, including vehicles, container-based units, and fixed installations.
Humans Remain in Control
A core design principle is that human operators remain in control of critical decisions, supported—but not replaced—by automated detection and analysis.
Valkyr Defense Systems reports strong interest from the defense sector and is now focusing on further system development, with the ambition to begin production in 2027. To support this next phase, the company is currently raising new capital, emphasizing responsible development and long-term credibility in a rapidly evolving defense landscape.
This is a summary of the article originally published in and by Aktuell Säkerhet. Read the article in Swedish here
Valkyr Defense Systems is part of Amyna, the go-to market program at Ideon Science Park. Read more
