It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

UMV Dynamics: Build your Military Capability from Industry

15 June 2026

Summary:

Tune into EPS 43 of the Protect Europe Podcast to find out! Inge Grini, one of the Co-Founders of UMV Dynamics delivers a masterclass on:

1) Build Military Capacity from Industrial capability
2) Harness the power of the automotive industry
3) Work with urgent buyers and have a JV in Ukraine
4) Create fast feedback loops and obsess over product development!

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Strategic Location and Ecosystem Advantages
  • The Need for Industrial Capability in Europe
  • Focus on Drone Production for Defence
  • Product Development and Tactical Drones
  • Innovative Business Models in Defense
  • Supply Chain Management and Component Choices
  • The Future of Drones in Warfare and Logistics
  • Technological Innovations and Their Impact on Society
  • Swarm Technology: Military and Civilian Applications
  • Funding and Scaling Drone Production
  • Building a Defence Ecosystem in Ukraine

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

TechWars: How Technology is Rewriting Defense!

15 May 2026

Summary:

Marc L Lange joins Martti Wallin and Colin Brown to dive deep into the European Defense scene.

Fundamentally, “strength leads to strength,” and “the way you buy determines the suppliers you get” are common themes.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Europe’s Defense Capability Needs
  • Performance-Based Procurement in Defense
  • Examples of Innovative Procurement Programs
  • Challenges in Drone Production and Logistics
  • Alliance Contracting and Its Relevance
  • The Importance of Training and Operational Readiness
  • Future of Defense Procurement and Investment
  • Investing in Ukrainian AI Drone Companies
  • Operational Autonomy and Military Needs
  • Production as a Capability
  • Deterrence and Political Decision-Making
  • Market Signals and Dual-Use Technologies

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Occam: Autonomous Edge Drones

10 May 2026

Summary:

Gui Wainwright shares his eclectic journey from NATO machine learning consulting to founding Occam, a company developing autonomous AI for military drones that are being rolled out in Ukraine. This Protect Europe Podcast is not to be missed!

This product might change the tide in Ukraine’s favour. 

TAKEAWAYS:

  • The Evolution of Ambitions: From Big Ideas to Real Impact
  • Paternity Leave and the Call to Action
  • Building a Team: The Role of Antler in Occam’s Formation
  • The Cadence of Innovation: Measuring Success in Real-Time
  • Navigating Challenges and Building Resilience
  • Never allowing people to put their lives on the line for a demo

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Defence Procurement: How you buy matters!

27 April 2026

Summary:

Colin Brown and Martti Wallin dive deep with Eva Sula, a Defence Strategic Advisor based in Estonia.

This episode of the Protect Europe Podcast features an in-depth discussion on defence collaboration, procurement reforms, innovation, and the role of political leadership in shaping military capabilities.

Eva and Martti share insights on overcoming bureaucratic hurdles, fostering innovation, and enhancing regional defence cooperation.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Challenges in Military Procurement
  • The Role of Russia in Shaping Defence Strategies
  • Learning from Ukraine and Adapting Strategies
  • Political Leadership and Procurement Mechanisms
  • The Role of Lobbying in Defence
  • Navigating Export Controls and Regulations
  • Integration Challenges with Prime Contractors
  • The Need for Healthy Competition: Startups vs Established Primes 

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Airvolve: Flying Car meets International Rescue

21 April 2026

Summary:

Colin Brown and Martti Wallin dive deep with Donatas Gendvilas, the CEO and Co-Founder of Airvolve-aero, a Lithuanian startup that is replacing the helicopter with an electric car-meets-international rescue machine.

Discover how they are leveraging off-the-shelf components, navigating regulatory challenges, and aiming to revolutionise rescue and transportation operations across the globe.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • The Problem with Helicopters
  • Challenges in Aircraft Development
  • The Team Behind the Technology
  • Transitioning from R&D to Manufacturing
  • Innovative Aircraft Control Mechanisms
  • Navigating Regulatory Landscapes
  • Market Opportunities in India and Beyond

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Nordic Air Defence: Making Europe Offensive

7 April 2026

Summary:

Colin Brown and Martti Wallin dive deep with Jens Holzapfel of Nordic Air Defence, a startup developing counter-UAS solutions.

This Protect Europe Podcast episode delves into defence technology, market positioning, and the future of drone warfare and cybersecurity.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Introduction to Nordic Air Defense
  • The Kruger Interceptor: Innovation in Defense Technology
  • Market Demand and Ideal Customers
  • Legislation and Authority in Counter-Drone Technology
  • Future Developments in Counter-UAS Systems
  • Differentiation in a Crowded Market
  • Production Challenges and Solutions
  • Investor Interest in Defense Tech
  • Long-Term Ownership Models in Defense
  • Building a Relay Race for Defence Investments
  • The Role of Government in Defence Innovation
  • Cybersecurity: Europe’s Vulnerabilities and Responses
  • The Ethical Dilemma of Defence Investments

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Anatra: When Drones Carry the War Effort

17 March 2026

Summary:

In this Protect Europe Podcast (PEP), Colin Brown interviews Kevin King, CEO of Anatra, about the innovative use of cargo UAVs in logistics and warfare. They discuss the importance of logistics in modern warfare, the technology behind UAVs, and the potential for humanitarian aid. Kevin shares insights on market strategy, funding, and the challenges of building a startup in the aerospace sector. The conversation highlights the impact of climate change on logistics and the need for effective solutions in crisis situations.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Logistics are crucial for success in warfare.
  • Work out what your customer needs and then understand how you can deliver it for them reliably in a warzone.
  • Drones can revolutionize supply chain logistics.
  • There is a significant gap in middle-mile logistics.
  • Cargo UAVs can operate in low-infrastructure areas.
  • The technology behind UAVs is evolving rapidly.
  • Humanitarian aid can be delivered more efficiently with drones.
  • Climate change is increasing the need for rapid logistics solutions.

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Keeping drones in the air 24/7

20 January 2026

Summary:

In this conversation, Rob Creighton, founder and CEO of Windlift, discusses the innovative technology behind tethered drones designed for various applications, particularly in enhancing surveillance for global shipping. He explains the challenges faced in maritime security, especially in high-risk areas like the Red Sea, and how Windlift’s solutions can provide significant advantages in terms of safety and efficiency. The discussion also covers the business model, partnerships, and future plans for the company, emphasizing the importance of algorithmic design and optimization in drone technology.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Windlift focuses on tethered drones for various mission requirements.
  • The company aims to provide reliable solutions for harsh environments.
  • Tethered drones can generate lift from wind, reducing energy consumption.
  • High ground advantage is crucial for surveillance and security.
  • The Red Sea is a significant bottleneck for global shipping.
  • Windlift’s technology can enhance situational awareness for ships.
  • The company offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional surveillance methods.
  • Algorithmic design is key to optimizing drone performance.
  • Data collection from drone failures aids in improving technology.
  • Windlift is exploring international markets and partnerships for growth.
  •  

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Product Market Fit (PMF) for the warfighter

16 January 2026

Summary

In this podcast episode, Colin Brown interviews Rasmus Basilier, a prominent figure in the defense technology space. Rasmus shares his journey from a childhood dream of becoming a soldier to his current role in defense accelerators and technology validation. The conversation explores the evolving defense ecosystem in Europe, the impact of the Ukraine war on military strategies, and the challenges of procurement in the defense sector. Rasmus emphasizes the importance of validation and testing for defense technologies, the role of logistics and economics in warfare, and the current investment landscape in defense startups. He also highlights innovative companies making strides in the defense space and concludes with thoughts on the future of defense technology and national security.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Rasmus has a lifelong passion for defense and military.

  • NATO Diana provides crucial support for defense startups.

  • The Ukraine war has shifted military strategies in Europe.

  • Validation in real military environments is essential for tech.

  • Logistics and economics play a critical role in warfare.

  • There is a significant influx of investment in defense tech.

  • Patriotic capital is rising in response to security needs.

  • Innovative companies are emerging in the defense sector.

  • Procurement processes are evolving in Finland and Europe.

  • Collaboration between startups and military is vital for success.

     

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

It’s not a storm — it’s the climate

Delivering “Special Forces” Equipment for the entire Ukrainian Army!

16 January 2026

Summary

In this conversation, Colin Brown interviews Misha Rudominski, co-founder of Himera, a company focused on developing advanced communication solutions for modern warfare. Misha discusses the challenges faced in battlefield communication, the innovative solutions Himera is creating, and the importance of adaptability in a war zone. The conversation also touches on the evolving narrative of Ukraine’s defence efforts and the recognition of other innovators in the defence tech space.

TAKEAWAYS:

  • Himera focuses on scalable and resilient communication solutions for modern warfare.

  • Current battlefield communication systems are often complicated and not user-friendly.

  • The company aims to create affordable solutions for all levels of military forces.

  • Himera’s products are designed to work in harsh environments where traditional systems fail.

  • The company has over 7,000 users, primarily within the Ukrainian Defence Forces.

  • Supply chain management in Ukraine requires careful planning and diverse sourcing.

  • The narrative of Ukraine’s defense is shifting towards self-sufficiency and innovation.

  • Misha highlights the importance of user feedback in product development.

  • The conversation emphasizes the growing strength of Ukraine’s defense capabilities.