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Distributed Spectrum
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Defense RF signal classification and localization
Distributed Spectrum
Work Here?
Defense RF signal classification and localization
Overview
Distributed Spectrum develops RF signal classification and localization technologies for defense use. Its low SWaP sensors are designed to be deployed on unmanned or manned vehicles, carried by personnel, or left in the field, and they provide real-time situational awareness with actionable alerts. The sensors collect RF signals and process them to classify signals and locate sources, enabling rapid, informed decisions in operational environments. The company differentiates itself through a defense-focused product line, compact hardware, and on-device processing powered by expertise in circuit design, signal processing, radio communications, and machine learning. The ultimate goal is to enhance defense forces’ operational capabilities by delivering reliable sensor systems and related services that improve awareness and responsiveness in real time.
About Distributed Spectrum
Industries
Robotics & Automation
Industrial & Manufacturing
AI & Machine Learning
Defense
Company Size
11-50
Company Stage
Series A
Total Funding
$25.2M
Headquarters
New York City, New York
Founded
2020
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- September 2023 AFRL award reached $1.248 million and closed by June 25, 2025.
- Picogrid announced a 2023 Air Force partnership to field Distributed Spectrum's capabilities.
- The company raised $29 million by 2026, including Conviction, Shield Capital, and Nat Friedman.
What critics are saying
- Defense revenue depends on slow procurement cycles; Forbes lists only $12 million in contracts.
- Shield AI and L3Harris already market autonomous EW systems, squeezing a tiny startup.
- If Army, Air Force, and Navy awards stall, headcount and growth freeze in 2026.
What makes Distributed Spectrum unique
- Founded at Harvard in 2021, Distributed Spectrum pairs ML models with low-SWaP sensors.
- Its 2026 website touts hot-swappable commercial components and AI-enabled workflows for experts.
- Forbes says Army, Air Force, and Navy contracts total $12 million.
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Funding
Total Funding
$25.2M
Above
Industry Average
Funded Over
2 Rounds
Industry standards
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan
401(k) Company Match
Flexible PTO
Growth & Insights and Company News
6 month growth
↓ -2%1 year growth
↑ 2%2 year growth
↑ 2%Distributed Spectrum, a New York-based defence technology company, has raised $25 million in Series A funding led by Conviction, Shield Capital and Nat Friedman, with participation from Felicis and XFund. Founded in 2020 by Harvard engineering students Alex Wulff, Ben Harpe and Isaac Struhl, the company develops AI-powered software and sensors for detecting and analysing radio signals. The startup specialises in radio frequency intelligence and currently employs approximately 30 people.
Gain actionable insights from the radio spectrum in real-time with small, cheap and efficient sensors from Distributed Spectrum
Picogrid partners with Distributed Spectrum, securing an Air Force contract.
Distributed Spectrum is Hiring for 8 Jobs on Simplify!
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About Distributed Spectrum
Industries
Robotics & Automation
Industrial & Manufacturing
AI & Machine Learning
Defense
Company Size
11-50
Company Stage
Series A
Total Funding
$25.2M
Headquarters
New York City, New York
Founded
2020
Distributed Spectrum is Hiring for 8 Jobs on Simplify!
Find jobs on Simplify and start your career today