Distributed Spectrum

Distributed Spectrum

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.

Significant Headcount Growth

About Distributed Spectrum

Simplify's Rating
Why Distributed Spectrum is rated
B-
Rated B on Competitive Edge
Rated B on Growth Potential
Rated C on Differentiation

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

  • $25M Series A from Conviction, Shield Capital funds scaling.
  • $7M DoD contracts validate market with Ukraine deployments.
  • Picogrid partnership secures Air Force contract.

What critics are saying

  • Raytheon, Lockheed develop competing RF systems internally.
  • DoD consolidates procurement to Northrop Grumman primes.
  • Picogrid dependency risks Air Force contract loss.

What makes Distributed Spectrum unique

  • Low SWaP sensors cost thousands versus DoD millions.
  • AI classifies RF signals in real-time on edge devices.
  • Custom ML architectures enable spectrum insights.

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Funding

Total Funding

$25.2M

Above

Industry Average

Funded Over

2 Rounds

Series A funding typically happens when a startup has a product and some customers, and now needs funding to scale. This money is usually used to grow the team, expand marketing, and improve the product. Venture capital firms are frequently the main investors here.
Series A Funding Comparison
Above Average

Industry standards

$15M
$8.2M
Discord
$15M
Canva
$25M
Distributed Spectrum
$30M
Kalshi

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan

401(k) Company Match

Flexible PTO

Growth & Insights and Company News

Headcount

6 month growth

-2%

1 year growth

0%

2 year growth

-5%
Medial
Apr 3rd, 2026
Distributed Spectrum raises $25M Series A for AI-powered radio signal detection tech

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.

Distributed Spectrum
Feb 9th, 2026
Distributed Spectrum │ Series A Announcement

Gain actionable insights from the radio spectrum in real-time with small, cheap and efficient sensors from Distributed Spectrum

Felicis
May 31st, 2024
Companies

Felicis portfolio companies.

Picogrid
Oct 3rd, 2023
Picogrid Partners with Distributed Spectrum, Securing an Air Force Contract

Picogrid partners with Distributed Spectrum, securing an Air Force contract.

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