On Friday 1st December 2023, Operational Solutions Ltd (OSL), a prominent player in counter-drone technologies based in Reading, UK, announced a substantial follow-on investment of £3.5 million from BGF, a leading growth capital investor. This investment brings the total funding for OSL to £11.5 million, which includes the previous £8 million investment made in 2021. OSL has seen significant growth in the past year, with a 50% increase in revenue and over 50% team growth. The company provides innovative solutions to customers such as Heathrow Airport and Wembley Stadium, and this additional funding will further support the development of solutions that ensure safety and security in airports, sports arenas, and events.
OSL's leadership of the Project HADO® consortium and their recent achievement of receiving the SME Creative Solutions Award exemplify their commitment to innovation.
Drones are increasingly being utilized in various industries, including sports, events, and Critical National Infrastructure. This investment is part of OSL's growth funding strategy, aimed at advancing technology, enhancing product offerings, and expanding their overall business. BGF's continued confidence in OSL's ability to address the challenges posed by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) is demonstrated through this additional investment.
Mark Legh-Smith, CEO of OSL, emphasizes the significance of this funding, stating that it is a testament to the progress OSL has made since their initial collaboration with BGF. He highlights that the £3.5 million investment will be dedicated to further technological advancements, product development, and investing in their most valuable asset, their people. Liam Pursall, investor at BGF, expresses enthusiasm for OSL's growth and technological development, referring to it as impressive. He acknowledges the increasing need for comprehensive counter-drone capabilities and situational awareness across multiple end markets, and recognizes the leading position OSL holds in this sector. BGF looks forward to continuing their partnership with OSL and supporting the business as it continues to scale.
About Operational Solutions Ltd (OSL): Operational Solutions Ltd is a leading counter-drone technologies business based in Reading, UK. With their proprietary intelligent software platform, FACE®, OSL provides solutions to the challenges posed by the increasing prevalence of unmanned aircraft systems in airspaces worldwide. OSL actively supports major international airports, national infrastructure projects, and defense markets.
About BGF: The Business Growth Fund (BGF) is the UK and Ireland's most active growth capital investor, providing long-term capital for small and medium-sized enterprises. Their mission is to unlock the potential of ambitious businesses, and they support companies across various sectors in achieving their growth goals.
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