Maven VCTs lead investment in Horizon Technologies

The Maven VCTs have invested in Horizon Technologies, a leading manufacturer of airborne signals intelligence (SIGINT) systems for use in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance applications. The funding will advance the anticipated late summer launch of its space-based Maritime Domain Awareness technology Amber™.

The Amber™ platform uses a proprietary method of geolocation and fingerprinting of radio frequency signals to locate and track shipping vessels worldwide.  This provides an end-to-end data services solution for defence companies and government agencies to identify illegal maritime activity such as piracy, smuggling, illegal fishing, transhipment and terrorism – a market worth over $20 billion and growing at 9% per year. Amber™ also has significant commercial potential for shipping companies, insurers and financial institutions to track vessels and ensure regulatory compliance.

Horizon has an established track record in the sector.  It has proven its ability to deliver innovative signals intelligence systems for the defence and security market, which are being used by an impressive client base of commercial companies, government agencies and government-backed bodies. The development of its new space-based solution means that the business is well placed to capitalise on global trends that are increasing the demand for maritime domain awareness data. We are excited to work with Horizon on fulfilling its growth potential.

Luke Matthews, Investment Director at Maven Capital Partners

Having the financial support and domain expertise of Maven will help us execute our vision of launching Horizon’s application ready technology into space more rapidly. With the benefit of experience, perspective, and relationships of this leading tech investor, we can demonstrate the capabilities of an ultra reliable MDA service. The market sector is just scratching the surface in terms of applications for space-based geospatial data and is poised for rapid growth.

John Beckner, CEO at Horizon Technologies