Dassault Aviation Bets $200M on AI for Next-Gen Rafale Jets
Overview
French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation is injecting $200 million into defense AI firm Harmattan AI. This strategic investment leads Harmattan's Series B funding, valuing the company at $1.4 billion. The collaboration aims to embed advanced artificial intelligence into future combat aircraft, including upgrades for the Rafale F5 and development of unmanned combat aerial systems.
Defence Giants Embrace AI Future
Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer behind the Rafale fighter jets, is making a significant commitment to artificial intelligence in aerospace. The company announced on Monday it is spearheading a $200 million Series B investment in Harmattan AI, a firm specializing in defense artificial intelligence.
This capital infusion positions Harmattan AI at a valuation of $1.4 billion, reflecting strong investor confidence in AI-driven defense technology. The partnership signals Dassault Aviation's intent to integrate cutting-edge, controlled autonomy and AI into its next generation of combat systems.
Enhancing Air Combat Capabilities
The funds will directly support the development of AI capabilities for Dassault Aviation's future platforms. Key areas include controlling unmanned aerial systems (drones) and enhancing the Rafale F5 fighter jet, slated for service around 2030. Development also extends to combat drones designed for collaborative missions with the Rafale F5 under the unmanned combat air system (UCAS) program.
Strategic Autonomy and Global Expansion
French President Emmanuel Macron lauded the deal, emphasizing its importance for France's strategic autonomy and technological superiority in AI-enabled defense. Harmattan AI, already holding programs with the French and UK Ministries of Defence, plans to use the funding for global expansion, entering new defense domains, and scaling manufacturing for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), drone interception, and electronic warfare platforms.
Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, stated the partnership aligns with the company's commitment to technological excellence and sovereignty, reinforcing its ability to deliver advanced capabilities. Mouad M’Ghari, CEO and Co-Founder of Harmattan AI, highlighted the move as a step towards a new generation of autonomous defense systems, combining frontier AI with aviation expertise.
