ZeroMark, a startup company, aims to provide soldiers with a more effective system to counter drones on the battlefield. With the increasing dominance of ultra-cheap, ultra-fast drones in modern warfare, there is a need for better technology to neutralize these threats. Current solutions are often insufficient, leaving soldiers to rely on their naked eye to target and hit drones.
ZeroMark’s solution is a “fire control system” that can be attached to almost any infantry rifle in just 30 seconds. It consists of a small computer with sensors, such as lidar and electro-optical, and a motorized buttstock. This system enhances the shooter’s probability of hitting drones by using machine vision to predict the drone’s movement and conducting ballistic calculations to refine shots. It essentially creates a virtual pivot between the shoulder pad and handheld positions, allowing for precise aiming.
The CEO of ZeroMark, Joel Anderson, who has a background in the U.S. Navy and private industry, was inspired to develop this technology after realizing the lack of automation for marksmanship compared to driving. He saw an opportunity to leverage technology to give soldiers an advantage in the field.
While the technology developed by ZeroMark is impressive, there are concerns about its potential misuse if it falls into the wrong hands. The company is aware of this and has focused its efforts on countering offensive drones rather than pursuing sales to domestic police forces. Anderson acknowledges that the idea of a “gun that never misses” is controversial and wants to avoid the use of AI weapons by law enforcement.
ZeroMark has taken steps to ensure responsible use of its technology by implementing robust licensing, remote activation, and fleet management features. Some devices are already being used by private security companies for protection against drone threats. The company is also in talks with Ukraine and the U.S. Department of Defense for potential partnerships.
The soldier-focused solution offered by ZeroMark has attracted the attention of major venture capitalists. Recently, the company closed a $7 million seed funding round led by Ground Up Ventures and a16z. The funding will be used for expanding the team and further research and development.
ZeroMark aims to go beyond its current auto-aiming system and become a dominant force in soldier systems and force protection. The company sees potential for its software to be integrated into other platforms, such as camera systems that can identify drones and their owners or payloads. In the future, the software could also be integrated into head-up displays or provide real-time information through an audible interface.
Ultimately, ZeroMark’s goal is to make soldiers as untouchable as advanced aircraft carriers in the sky. They believe that large systems alone cannot win wars; it is the soldiers on the ground who play a crucial role in achieving victory. By providing them with advanced technology, like the fire control system, ZeroMark aims to give soldiers a significant advantage on the battlefield.