Defense startup Shield AI announced a $1.5 billion Series G round that more than doubles its valuation to $12.7 billion, alongside revenue projections of at least $540 million this year. The funding is set to accelerate scaling of its Hivemind autonomy platform and V-BAT surveillance drones. Shield AI also linked the raise to strategic moves including the pending acquisition of tactical simulation company Aechalon and a non-dilutive $500 million preferred equity deal with Blackstone. The company cited investor appetite for defense modernization amid ongoing global conflict. For higher education, the deal signals continued demand for AI-enabled research, systems engineering talent, and work in autonomy verification and deployment—areas universities increasingly support through partnerships and training pipelines.