About Kestrel Defense Systems
Kestrel builds pilotless defense aircraft for U.S. military users. It is developing an interceptor for small drones and a one-way aircraft for places without satellite navigation. Its work combines autonomous control with data from multiple sensors. Kestrel builds the systems in the United States.
Based in Ventura, California, Kestrel incorporated in Delaware in June 2026. It received CAGE 21Z93 in July and has an active SAM.gov registration. Its UEI is JZHSTSMSQ1N5, and its primary NAICS codes are 541715 and 541330. It is a U.S. small business with a small team and open engineering roles. Matthew Hantke is chief executive officer, and Aidan Moran is president, treasurer, and secretary. Kestrel offers briefings to government program offices, prime contractors, and teaming partners. It limits detailed system information to verified government and industry partners. It promises to answer briefing requests within one business day.
Funding Rounds (SEC Form D)
| First sale | Filed with SEC | Amount sold | Investors | Avg. check | Terms | Filing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 27, 2026 | Nov 10, 2026 | $20,000of $120K target | 3 | $6,667 | Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)Rule 506(b) | Form D ↗ |
First sale is the date the first investor in the offering committed to invest. Companies must file Form D within 15 days of that date, so filing dates run later.
Why Investors Backed Kestrel Defense Systems
Kestrel develops unmanned aircraft for contested military airspace. It treats cost as an engineering requirement alongside mass, power, and range. Kestrel screens each component against NDAA Section 848 and the American Security Drone Act.
The problem it targets
Kestrel targets small drones when signal jamming is restricted or ineffective. It also targets missions where satellite signals are jammed, spoofed, or unavailable. Its response is physical interception and navigation that does not depend on GPS.
What the product does
SYS-01 is a kinetic interceptor that destroys small drones through direct impact. Its guidance operates autonomously. SYS-02 is a one-way aircraft that flies and holds stable by vision without a satellite fix.
Progress so far
In 2026, Kestrel ran and logged the full interception sequence against a live airborne target. The second aircraft has also flown without satellite positioning. Extended-range flight profiles remain ahead.
We wrote this summary from public statements by Kestrel Defense Systems and its investors. It is not investment advice.
Leadership Team
Executive officers and directors listed on Kestrel Defense Systems's Form D filed Nov 10, 2026.