Perseus Defense
Perseus Defense develops portable kinetic counter-drone systems built around the Harpe micro-missile interceptor.
The Company
Perseus Defense is a counter-UAS company developing the Harpe interceptor and a portable launcher system for Group 1 and Group 2 drone threats. It argues that portable kinetic systems must be inexpensive enough to counter drones without creating a severe cost imbalance for the defender.
Founded in 2025 by Jason Cornelius and Steve Messinger, the company joined Y Combinator’s Summer 2025 batch. Reporting in September 2025 described a $6 million seed round, while the company’s later Buda headquarters project signaled an ambition to combine development work with manufacturing capacity.
Why It Matters
The investment case rests on whether Harpe can move from promising field tests to reliable, repeatable production and a funded customer program-without losing its cost advantage.
Valuation History
- No disclosed valuation events
What Changed
Jason Cornelius and Steve Messinger found Perseus Defense and join Y Combinator’s Summer 2025 batch.
A reported $6 million seed round funds early product development; no valuation is disclosed in the reporting reviewed.
Buda EDC announces a headquarters and manufacturing project in Buda, Texas.
The Harpe system is test-fired during the 1st Cavalry Division’s Golden Shield counter-drone exercise at Fort Hood.
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