Harmattan AI secures $200M in Series B funding headed by Dassault Aviation, achieving unicorn status in the defense sector

Harmattan AI Soars with Major Investment from Dassault Aviation

French defense technology startup Harmattan AI has experienced rapid growth since its founding in 2024. The company recently secured a $200 million Series B investment led by Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer behind the Rafale fighter jet, bringing Harmattan AI’s valuation to $1.4 billion.

Specializing in autonomy and mission-system software for military aircraft, Harmattan AI has already attracted attention from both the French and British defense ministries within its short lifespan. This latest round of funding, along with a strategic partnership, marks a significant leap forward for the company, which once likened itself to a “European Anduril.”

Initially aiming to disrupt established defense contractors, Harmattan AI is now open to collaborating with these industry leaders, even if it means stepping away from its previous identity as a “next-generation defense prime.”

Shaping the Future of Air Combat

According to a recent statement from Harmattan AI, the company will work closely with Dassault Aviation to integrate advanced AI into future Rafale jets and drones. Their goal is to ensure these innovations remain both sovereign and scalable for national defense.

Industry Momentum Amid Global Shifts

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has highlighted the importance of drone technology for NATO forces, fueling growth for defense tech startups like Harmattan AI. The company, which has teamed up with Ukrainian drone manufacturer Skyeton, plans to use its new funding to expand its product range and ramp up production of platforms for drone interception, electronic warfare, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations.

French President Emmanuel Macron celebrated the news, describing it as a major step forward for France’s strategic independence, military technological edge in AI-powered defense drones, and the national economy.

Global Ambitions Beyond France

While Harmattan AI’s achievements are significant for France, the company’s mission extends further. With a stated aim to “empower the armed forces of liberal democracies and their allies,” Harmattan AI is positioning itself to serve clients beyond Europe. The company will showcase its technology at the upcoming World Defense Show in Riyadh and is actively growing its U.S. presence.

Recent Milestones and Leadership Perspectives

In July, Harmattan AI set a new benchmark by securing a “multi-million-U.S. dollar contract by a NATO government” for supplying AI-powered small drones, just a year after launching. CEO and co-founder Mouad M’Ghari stated that the company is now entering a phase of rapid expansion and increased manufacturing capacity.

In a recent LinkedIn update, M’Ghari revealed that this latest investment adds to the $42 million previously raised, including a seed round led by Atlantic and a Series A led by FirstMark, with additional support from Motier Ventures and Sisyphus Ventures.

Meanwhile, CTO and co-founder Martin de Gourcuff offered a broader perspective, noting, “As the international order becomes increasingly unstable, we are entering a time where power often comes before law—a reversal of the civilized world we seek. Harmattan AI’s mission is to defend our values and restore the balance, because unchecked power is simply violence.”

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