Defense tech startup DEFCON AI raises $44M in funding to build next generation of AI-powered tools for the military

The rise of drones and AI in warfare has transformed the battlefield, creating an urgent need for innovative military planning. Recognizing this challenge, McLean, Virginia-based defense tech startup DEFCON AI is developing advanced tools for modern military operations.

Today, DEFCON AI announced it has secured $44 million in Seed funding, led by Bessemer Venture Partners, with participation from Fifth Growth Fund, Red Cell Partners, and others.

The company plans to use the fresh capital infusion to expand its team, boost research and development, and broaden its dual-use offerings. DEFCON AI’s goal is to enhance the ability of both defense and commercial sectors to quickly and effectively predict and respond to disruptions.

Alongside the funding news, DEFCON AI revealed that Christopher Wan from Bessemer has joined its Board of Directors, accompanied by independent board member Dr. Ray O. Johnson, former CTO of Lockheed Martin and Bessemer Operating Partner.

Yisroel Brumer, Co-Founder and CEO of DEFCON AI, emphasized the company’s commitment to developing solutions that improve response planning in challenging environments.

“At DEFCON AI, we’re creating tools to revolutionize response planning in challenging environments,” said Co-Founder and CEO Yisroel Brumer. “We offer the Department of Defense the ability to rapidly deploy innovative software solutions, ensuring defense leaders and planners have the necessary tools to coordinate operations and manage disruptions effectively. This capability is crucial as global competitors continue to invest in advanced military technology, potentially determining the outcome of future conflicts.”

Since its founding in 2022, DEFCON AI has achieved remarkable growth, securing Department of the Air Force Phase II and Phase III Small Business Innovation Research contracts and receiving positive feedback on its first product.

Gen. (Retired) Paul Selva, Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of DEFCON AI, highlighted the company’s unique ability to merge high-end software engineering with a deep understanding of military operations. “Our algorithms enable planners to react immediately to disruptions, making us a key partner for the Department of Defense,” Selva said.

David Cowan, partner at Bessemer Venture Partners, underscored the importance of innovative software for national security, expressing confidence in DEFCON AI’s mission to build smarter logistics capabilities for the Defense Department.

Founded in 2022 under Red Cell Partners’ incubation, DEFCON AI is building a next-generation modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) toolset for the modern military environment.

The startup is focused on creating next-generation MS&A tools for transportation and logistics operations in modern military contexts. The company’s expertise spans artificial intelligence, mathematical optimization, simulation, analytics, and software engineering, all aimed at empowering military planners and leaders to navigate complex logistics challenges.