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

Dassault Aviation Invests in Harmattan AI

Photo credit: THIBAUD MORITZ/AFP via Getty Images

Rapid Growth for French Defense Tech Startup

French startup Harmattan AI has quickly gained momentum, mirroring the speed of the supersonic aircraft produced by its latest investor. Established in 2024, Harmattan AI has achieved a valuation of $1.4 billion following a $200 million Series B funding round led by Dassault Aviation, the company behind the Rafale fighter jet.

Expanding Influence in Defense Technology

Specializing in autonomy and mission-system software for military aircraft, Harmattan AI has already attracted attention from both French and British defense ministries during its brief existence. This new investment and partnership are set to propel the company further, building on its earlier ambition to become a “European Anduril.”

While Harmattan AI initially aimed to disrupt established defense contractors, it is now open to collaborating with these industry leaders—even if it means moving away from its former label as a “next-generation defense prime.”

Shaping the Future of Air Combat

Harmattan AI’s latest announcement reveals that the company will work with Dassault Aviation to develop advanced AI systems for future Rafale jets and drones. Their goal is to ensure these technologies remain both sovereign and scalable.

Industry Shifts and New Opportunities

The widespread use of drones in Ukraine has highlighted the need for NATO forces to modernize, creating opportunities for innovative defense startups. Harmattan AI, which recently teamed up with drone manufacturer Skyeton, plans to use the new funding to broaden its offerings and ramp up production of platforms for drone interception, electronic warfare, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).

National and International Ambitions

French President Emmanuel Macron hailed the news as a significant step for France’s strategic independence, technological leadership in AI-powered defense drones, and economic growth.

Harmattan AI’s mission to “empower the armed forces of liberal democracies and their allies” signals its intent to expand beyond France and Europe. The company is set to showcase its technology at the World Defense Show in Riyadh and is actively growing its U.S. presence.

Record-Breaking Achievements and Future Plans

In July, Harmattan AI secured a multi-million dollar contract from a NATO government for AI-powered small drones, just a year after its founding. CEO and co-founder Mouad M’Ghari stated that the company is now entering a phase of rapid expansion, focusing on scaling up manufacturing.

Funding and Vision

According to a recent update from M’Ghari, the latest investment adds to the $42 million previously raised, with earlier rounds led by Atlantic and FirstMark, and support from Motier Ventures and Sisyphus Ventures.

Meanwhile, CTO and co-founder Martin de Gourcuff shared his perspective on the current global climate, emphasizing that Harmattan AI is committed to defending democratic values and restoring the balance between power and law.