Korean defense startup selected as 2026 Hi-Seoul company based on growth potential, profitability, stability, productivity and global capabilities
Defense startup Quantum Aero is looking to take its autonomous flight technology beyond the battlefield and into the global market after being selected as a 2026 Hi-Seoul company, a designation for promising small and medium-sized enterprises in Seoul.
The Hi-Seoul program, jointly operated by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and the Seoul Business Agency, evaluates companies based on growth potential, profitability, stability, productivity and global capabilities. The program began with 11 companies in 2004 and has grown to 1,161 today.
Quantum Aero said its selection as a Hi-Seoul company will help it accelerate both technological development and overseas expansion through Seoul's business support programs.
Founded in 2024, Quantum Aero is developing artificial intelligence systems that allow uncrewed platforms to recognize their surroundings, make decisions and carry out missions with minimal external control.
The technology is designed to keep autonomous systems operating even when GPS signals are jammed or communications are cut off — scenarios that can render conventional remotely controlled drones ineffective. According to Quantum Aero, it currently holds 11 registered patents related to intelligent mission technologies.
The defense startup has participated in the Navy's naval firepower demonstration and combat experiment, as well as a drone warfare exercise organized by the Ministry of National Defense.
Quantum Aero is also developing core technology for an autonomous drone platform capable of operating in GPS-denied environments through a public-private open innovation project led by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, with LIG D&A as the demand-side company.
hwkan@heraldcorp.com