How do drones navigate when GPS fails?
In modern warfare and defense operations, GPS signals are often jammed or unavailable, rendering many drones ineffective. Enter Theseus, a San Francisco-based startup that has developed the Micro Visual Positioning System (Micro VPS)—a lightweight, cost-effective solution enabling drones to operate autonomously in GPS-denied environments.
What is Micro VPS and how does it work?
Micro VPS is a compact system weighing less than 300 grams, designed to be retrofitted onto any drone. It utilizes onboard cameras, accelerometers, gyroscopes, and reference satellite imagery to determine the drone’s position without relying on GPS signals. This self-contained system is unjammable and has no radio frequency signature, making it ideal for high-threat environments.
Why is this technology significant?
Traditional drones depend heavily on GPS for navigation. In conflict zones where GPS jamming is prevalent, such as in Ukraine or along the U.S. border, this dependency becomes a critical vulnerability. Theseus’s Micro VPS addresses this issue by providing a reliable alternative, ensuring drones can continue their missions even when GPS is compromised.
Who is behind Theseus and what support have they received?
Founded in 2024 by Carl Schoeller, Ian Laffey, and Sacha Lévy, Theseus has quickly gained attention in the defense tech community. The startup recently secured $4.3 million in seed funding, led by First Round Capital, with participation from Y Combinator and Lux Capital . Notably, Theseus has collaborated with the U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) to test and deploy their technology in some of the world’s most challenging electronic warfare environments.
What are the key features of Micro VPS?
- Ultra-lightweight and low-power: Weighs under 300 grams, suitable for small drones.
- All-weather operation: Functions reliably in various environmental conditions.
- Optimized for unmanned defense missions: Designed specifically for military applications.
- Rapid deployment: Can be installed in under 30 minutes.
- Cost-effective: Approximately 10 times more affordable than existing solutions.
What’s next for Theseus?
With the recent funding, Theseus plans to expand its engineering team and partner with mission-focused organizations globally. The company aims to iterate at the pace of a tech startup rather than a traditional defense contractor, rapidly developing solutions to meet urgent operational needs.
Could this be the future of drone navigation?
As electronic warfare becomes increasingly sophisticated, the ability for drones to operate without GPS is not just advantageous—it’s essential. Theseus’s Micro VPS represents a significant step forward in ensuring unmanned systems remain operational and effective, even in the most challenging environments.
Source: Theseus