African defense-technology startup Terra Industries has just pulled off a remarkable feat in the continent’s fast-growing tech ecosystem, raising an additional $22 million in funding, bringing its total seed round to $34 million in just a few weeks.

This fast-paced extension round was led by leading global investor Lux Capital, with strong participation from repeat backers like 8VC, Nova Global, Silent Ventures, Belief Capital, Tofino Capital and Resilience17 Capital. Angel investors such as Jordan Nel and Hollywood actor Jared Leto also backed the round.

The extra $22 million was secured in under two weeks, an unusually swift pace even by international startup standards, a testament to the confidence investors have in Terra’s vision and traction.

What To Know About Terra

Founded in 2024 by young innovators Nathan Nwachuku (22) and Maxwell Maduka (24), Terra Industries is on a mission to develop African-built autonomous defense systems, including drones, sentry towers, unmanned ground vehicles and multi-domain security platforms. These systems help governments and commercial operators detect and respond to threats, protect infrastructure, and reduce reliance on costly imported security tech.

Unlike many startups that focus only on software, Terra bridges hardware and software, designing its platforms around real security needs on the continent. Its proprietary software – ArtemisOS – powers real-time surveillance, autonomous mission planning, and integrated multi-domain response capabilities.

The startup says its technology is already safeguarding infrastructure assets valued at around $11 billion across the continent and has generated real commercial revenue and government contracts, a strong early sign that homegrown solutions can compete on the global stage.

Investors like Lux Capital see this as a bold step toward Africa’s technological sovereignty. As Brandon Reeves, a Partner at Lux Capital, explained, “We believe in a future where local defence technology prevails…because security is the prerequisite for all economic growth.”