ICEYE Secures €1.4 Billion German Contract While Skild AI Raises Over $1.4 Billion at WEF 2026

At the World Economic Forum in Davos 2026, two technology companies showcased remarkable growth trajectories that highlight the increasing investor appetite for deep tech solutions. Satellite firm ICEYE and robotics startup Skild AI shared their expansion plans and funding achievements during a startup roundtable discussion, demonstrating how defense spending increases and labor shortages are creating significant market opportunities.

ICEYE's Major Defense Contract Win

ICEYE, founded approximately a decade ago by CEO Rafal Modrzewski, specializes in building small satellites using synthetic aperture radar technology. The company's satellites can capture images in all weather conditions, providing governments with critical capabilities to assess military activity.

The company has successfully launched 64 satellites to date and is experiencing rising interest from European governments as defense spending increases across the region. Modrzewski noted that investor attitudes toward defense technology in Europe have shifted significantly since the war in Ukraine began, leading to increased funding opportunities for companies in the sector.

Skild AI's Robotics Innovation and Funding Success

Skild AI, led by CEO Deepak Pathak, is developing what the company calls "omnibodied intelligence" – software that acts as a general-purpose brain for robots across different machine types including humanoids, robotic arms, and four-legged machines.

The company's approach allows different machines to perform various tasks using the same core system, addressing the growing demand for automation driven by labor shortages and aging populations in several countries. Pathak emphasized that their long-term goal is to make their software the standard operating system for robots worldwide, similar to how Android powers smartphones.

India's Role in Global Robotics Supply Chain

Both companies see significant opportunities in India's market. Pathak specifically highlighted India's potential role in the global robotics supply chain, citing the country's experience in automotive manufacturing and hardware production. Skild AI has already established operations in Bengaluru and is actively working on developing hardware capabilities in the country.

The founders noted that India's manufacturing expertise and growing technology sector position it well to participate in the expanding robotics industry, particularly as companies seek to diversify their supply chains and tap into skilled technical talent.

Capital Market Dynamics and Strategic Focus

Both founders provided insights into the evolving capital landscape for deep tech companies. They emphasized that while access to funding has improved, disciplined capital deployment remains crucial. Modrzewski observed that startups often find raising funds most challenging when they need it most and easiest when they no longer require it urgently.

Pathak stressed that his team remains focused on solving technical problems rather than being distracted by funding considerations. This technical focus has enabled Skild AI to achieve significant milestones in developing general-purpose robotics intelligence while building a substantial war chest for future expansion.

The success stories of both ICEYE and Skild AI reflect broader trends in deep tech investment, where investors are increasingly willing to support companies developing solutions for critical challenges in defense, automation, and emerging technologies. Their achievements at WEF 2026 demonstrate the growing maturity and commercial viability of advanced technology startups addressing real-world problems.