US defense startup Aventra has raised $3 million to fund the development of a low-cost AI-guided glide kit that can transform existing, unguided munitions into precision strike weapons with a reach of up to 3,000 miles.
The system, named Piranha, features a modular design that adds aerodynamic wings and AI-enabled guidance hardware to standard ordnance. This configuration provides enhanced range and accuracy without the need for expensive missile production.
Unlike traditional air or ground-launched munitions, the Piranha system is intended for deployment from high-altitude balloons operating at 80,000 feet. By utilizing stratospheric winds for propulsion, the weapon can glide over long distances while maintaining low detectability — potentially offering a disruptive edge in strategic and tactical missions.
