Fixed-return preferred equity · Defense tech

Shield AI announces $500M in fixed-return preferred equity

Blackstone-managed funds back the defense company alongside its $1.5 billion Series G.

Shield AI announced $500 million in fixed-return preferred equity financing on March 26, 2026, from funds managed by Blackstone. The company separately announced a $1.5 billion Series G at a $12.7 billion post-money valuation.

The financing supports its planned acquisition of flight-simulation developer Aechelon and phases of X-BAT development. Aechelon’s simulation technology helps train pilots and test autonomy before live flights. The acquisition was subject to regulatory approvals at announcement.

Use of funds

Support the planned Aechelon acquisition and X-BAT development

Funding history

Fixed-return preferred equity · This round$500M

Sources

  1. Shield AI to acquire Aechelon and raise $2B at $12.7B valuationshield.ai · Mar 26, 2026