Raptor Defense Co., founded by Drexel Engineering student Andrew DeLuca, is making waves in military safety technology. Their automated Landmine detection rover has earned prestigious recognition from the U.S. Army, marking a significant milestone in the company’s journey from Drexel Fast-Pitch competition participant to thriving startup. DeLuca’s leadership and innovative thinking have propelled Raptor Defense to the forefront of defense innovation, culminating in a top 10 win at the highly competitive XTechLive Competition, sponsored by the U.S. Army.
From Future Fest Pitch to Reality
Andrew DeLuca’s entrepreneurial journey began at Drexel’s Future Fest 2023 Fast-Pitch Competition. While his initial pitch for an automated IED and landmine detection rover didn’t win, the experience proved invaluable. The feedback he received ignited a passion that fueled his entrepreneurial drive. DeLuca saw not just a problem, but an opportunity to make a real-world impact. This initial pitch laid the foundation for Raptor Defense Co., demonstrating the power of pitch competitions and entrepreneurial ecosystems to nurture nascent ideas into thriving businesses.
Drexel: A Launchpad for Innovation
DeLuca strategically leveraged Drexel University’s resources to transform his vision into reality. Through Drexel and the Close School of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, he gained access to expert mentorship, funding opportunities, and a vibrant network of like-minded individuals. This support system proved crucial in Raptor Defense’s early development.
DeLuca credits his talented team as a key to Raptor’s success. “I have a great team; they’re the real secret,” he says. “We look for passion, intellect, and discipline.” Many team members are Drexel students and alumni, drawn to the university’s focus on entrepreneurship. DeLuca’s rented on-campus apartment, affectionately known as “The Raptor House,” became a collaborative hub where business and engineering professionals worked tirelessly to refine their groundbreaking technology. Drexel’s entrepreneurial ecosystem provided the perfect environment for DeLuca’s dream to take shape.
Turning Challenges into Triumphs
DeLuca embraces challenges as opportunities for growth. “Failure is inevitable,” he states. “Learn from it and move on. Don’t let one failure be your ultimate failure.” This philosophy was put to the test after the 2023 pitch competition.
Undeterred, DeLuca incorporated the feedback he received, refined his concept, and persevered. His resilience paid off. Just a year later, he returned to Startup Fest’s Startup Funds Competition and won $20,000! Shortly after, Raptor took first place at Drexel’s Tech Expo, sponsored by the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA).
The most recent triumph came in early 2025, when Raptor was selected as one of only 30 companies to pitch at the prestigious XTechLive Competition, sponsored by the U.S. Army. Out of over 300 applicants, Raptor emerged as one of the top 10 winners, a testament to their innovative technology and DeLuca’s unwavering vision.
The Future of Raptor Defense
Andrew DeLuca’s journey exemplifies the power of Drexel’s commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation. By leveraging the university’s resources, including mentorship and a supportive community, DeLuca transformed a simple pitch into a nationally recognized startup. His story inspires future Drexel students to embrace risk-taking and pursue their dreams with passion and perseverance. While Raptor Defense Co.’s journey is ongoing, its early success serves as a powerful reminder that with dedication and innovation, anything is possible.
