Y Combinator, the renowned startup accelerator, has made a bold move into the defense industry with the launch of its first defense startup, Ares Industries. This startup aims to develop low-cost cruise missiles that are compatible with existing launch platforms, offering the Department of Defense (DoD) the capabilities it desires in a significantly smaller and cheaper form factor.
The founders of Ares Industries, Devan Plantamura and Alex Tseng, have already tested prototypes of their cruise missiles in the Mojave Desert. They have ambitious plans to deliver fully functional missile systems to their first customers by mid-2025. In a post on the YC website, they expressed their belief that their vision for anti-ship cruise missiles can help address the munitions gap faced by the United States.
While Ares Industries acknowledges that war should never be desired, they emphasize the importance of being prepared to protect lives and prevent conflicts. By contributing to the rebuilding of the defense industrial base, they aim to ensure that the United States is well-equipped to respond to threats effectively.
This move by Y Combinator into the defense sector is notable, considering that defense startups are not typically seen in Silicon Valley. However, YC’s CEO, Garry Tan, has a background in the defense industry, having been an early employee at Palantir, a highly successful data analytics company that has worked with the U.S. military and other governments. Palantir’s CEO, Alex Karp, recently defended the company’s work, stating that they hold a consistently pro-Western view.
Y Combinator’s decision to encourage defense tech startups to apply for its program demonstrates a recognition of the potential for innovation and disruption in the defense industry. By supporting startups like Ares Industries, YC aims to bring fresh ideas and solutions to the defense sector, ultimately strengthening national security.
The launch of Ares Industries marks an exciting development in the defense industry, with the promise of affordable and efficient cruise missile technology. As the startup progresses, it will be intriguing to see how it navigates the complexities of the defense market while staying true to its mission of safeguarding lives and preventing conflicts.
