Shield AI raises $2 billion at $12.7 billion valuation
Shield AI raised $2 billion at a $12.7 billion valuation to expand its autonomous flight software. The firm will acquire simulation firm Aechelon Technology.
Defense technology startup Shield AI has secured $2 billion in a Series G funding round, propelling its valuation to $12.7 billion. The capital injection comes as the company seeks to expand its artificial intelligence-powered software suite amid the increasing deployment of autonomous systems in global conflicts. The funding round was led by Advent International and co-led by JPMorgan Chase & Co. through its Strategic Investment Group, with additional participation from existing investors Snowpoint Ventures and Riot Ventures.
As part of the financing package, funds managed by Blackstone Inc. are investing $500 million in preferred equity. The firm has also committed a $250 million delayed draw facility, which could increase its total investment to $750 million. The surge in demand for autonomous flight software has been driven by the strategic use of such technologies by the United States and Israel during coordinated operations against Iran, as well as the ongoing defense of Ukraine following the invasion by Russia.
