How Lithuania’s space tech startup Astrolight is powering the future of defence communications

In Lithuania’s constantly growing tech scene, one startup stands out for its bold vision in military innovation and space tech for defence: Astrolight. Founded in 2019 in Vilnius, this firm is developing a fully vertically integrated optical communications system – ground stations, laser terminals, space links – that bridges the gap between satellites and Earth. With its €2.8 million seed funding round and selection for DIANA (the NATO defence innovation accelerator), Astrolight exemplifies Lithuania’s strategic edge in laser communication technology, dual-use technologies, and the wider defence ecosystem in Lithuania.

Cutting edge tech, dual-use applications

Astrolight’s core product line focuses on laser communication technology: ultra secure, high bandwidth links that operate outside traditional radio frequency (RF) channels. The company describes its mission as creating “the optical backbone network for space.”

In July 2025 the company’s POLARIS free space laser terminal achieved successful live trials with the Lithuanian Navy in the Baltic Sea, demonstrating ship-to-ship links at 1 Gbps that are nearly impossible to intercept or jam: a hallmark of modern military technology.

Such capabilities place Astrolight firmly within Lithuania’s growing defence industry, a sector now tightly interlinked with space and cybersecurity domains.

A launchpad for Lithuania’s defence and space innovation

Lithuania’s tech ecosystem is rapidly maturing, and Astrolight is central to how global firms view the country for investing in Lithuania and building operations around defence. The firm’s inclusion among DIANA’s top innovators confirms both its technical credibility and Lithuania’s ability to foster defence tech startups.

The combination of local optical engineering talent, from photonics, electronics manufacturing and space research, alongside Lithuanian state support, positions the country as a strong contender for companies seeking reliable bases for the defence sector.

Further, the startup’s €2.8 million raise in 2025 underscores growing investor interest in Lithuania’s cybersecurity, space tech and dual use capabilities.

Why Astrolight matters for global defence investors

For companies looking to expand into advanced defence communications, Lithuania and Astrolight offer several compelling advantages:

• Dual-use relevance: Astrolight’s optical terminals serve space, maritime and terrestrial defence domains; classic example of space and defence innovation.
• Strong local talent and ecosystem: Lithuania’s small but highly skilled engineering teams in optics, photonics and aerospace support firms exploring Lithuania’s laser industry.
• Strategic geography and EU alignment: Based in the EU, Lithuania offers companies access to European markets and regulations, enhancing portability of operations.
• Proven government collaboration: Public-private calls in defence R&D, support for startups and inclusion in international accelerators show Lithuania’s readiness for foreign investment in defence technologies.

With its groundbreaking laser communications technology and clear defence tech focus, Astrolight is a vivid example of how Lithuania’s innovation driven environment is delivering at the intersection of space, cybersecurity and defence. For investors and defence tech companies searching for European bases capable of advancing deep tech, Lithuania’s defence industry offers a uniquely promising platform.

Combining worldclass engineers, supportive institutions, and laser edge products, Lithuania invites strategic players to tap its strengths and help shape the next generation of defence communications.