Shield AI raised $2 billion at a $12.7 billion valuation—more than doubling its
value from a year ago—highlighting strong investor demand for defense tech and
AI, with Advent International and JPMorgan Chase & Co.’s Strategic Investment
Group co-leading a $1.5 billion Series G round and funds managed by Blackstone
Inc. adding $500 million in preferred equity; the company said it will use part
of the proceeds to acquire Aechelon Technology Inc., which develops tactical
simulation tools for military pilot training and testing advanced aircraft and
autonomous systems, though deal terms were not disclosed.
