Firestorm Labs, a company advancing defense technology with expeditionary manufacturing, has secured a $47 million Series A funding round. The investment was led by New Enterprise Associates (NEA), with participation from prominent defense investors including Lockheed Martin Ventures, Decisive Point, Washington Harbour Partners, Booz Allen Ventures, and others. Additionally, the funding includes $12 million in venture debt provided by J.P. Morgan. This investment follows an initial seed round of $12.5 million.
This latest funding positions Firestorm to expand its additive manufacturing capabilities, enabling quicker and more affordable production of drones and critical defense systems directly in operational theaters.
Firestorm Labs operates in a critical niche, utilizing 3D printing technology to create modular unmanned aerial systems (UAS) directly at the front lines. This aligns with recent directives from Executive Order 14307, aimed at enhancing drone capabilities for national security purposes. As Chris Moran, vice president at Lockheed Martin Ventures, stated, "Deployable, on-site 3D drone printing is a powerful tool that further extends the warfighter's ability to secure the battlespace."
The funds will primarily be directed toward enhancing Firestorm's flagship product, the xCell, an "expeditionary factory-in-a-box" designed to produce modular drones and critical parts directly at combat locations. The company plans to expand its engineering team, open a larger production facility, and develop a broader partnership ecosystem.
Additionally, Firestorm intends to integrate tactical software, developer tools, mission planning, and onboard computing into one streamlined solution, simplifying drone deployment in contested environments without dependency on GPS or traditional communications systems.
Founded with a clear vision to disrupt legacy defense procurement processes, Firestorm Labs has rapidly gained recognition within defense circles. CEO Dan Magy highlighted the strategic advantage their technology provides: "Our unique ability to 3D print modular airframes on-site dramatically reduces production timelines, costs, and logistical constraints."
The company has notably caught the attention of military leaders like retired U.S. Army Gen. Richard D. Clarke, who emphasized the logistical advantages provided by Firestorm's technology, reinforcing its value in real-world military applications.
Firestorm Labs was established to address critical operational challenges experienced firsthand by its founders and leadership team. Headquartered in San Diego, the company has quickly grown to become a trusted partner for defense innovation.
In addition to NEA's substantial involvement, strategic investors from the defense and venture capital sectors expressed enthusiasm for Firestorm’s potential. Mina Faltas from Washington Harbour Partners underlined the broader impact, stating, "Firestorm is filling a critical manufacturing void that will contribute to the entire defense ecosystem."
Justin Krauss from J.P. Morgan’s Innovation Economy business highlighted their commitment, noting the importance of supporting next-generation defense technology. Similarly, Brian MacCarthy of Booz Allen Ventures underscored the importance of Firestorm’s innovations for maintaining competitive advantages on the modern battlefield.
