An Israeli startup born from the October 7 massacre has managed to raise $39 million in rapid fundraising rounds, aiming to change the way armies deal with modern threats.
The company, named Kela Technologies, has developed a system that allows armies to quickly integrate commercial technologies, such as AI-based models, advanced sensors, and drones—into existing military systems.
From Idea to Reality – at Record Speed
The idea behind the platform is to improve the adaptability of military forces and enable faster responses to dynamic realities on the ground.
Founded in July 2024, the startup was driven by the understanding that even entities with limited technological capabilities can leverage civilian technologies to create an advantage on the battlefield. The founders, including former senior officials from Israel’s Directorate of Defense, Research, & Development (MAFAT), the Air Force, and Rafael, decided to build a platform that would allow Western militaries respond efficiently and immediately.
Strategic Investment: Significant American Support
The company was founded by Hamutal Meridor, daughter of Dan and Liora Meridor, along with Alon Dror, Jason Many, and Omer Bar-Ilan. The four bring extensive experience in national security and technology. Meridor, who serves as the company president, is a graduate of the 8200 Intelligence Unit and a serial entrepreneur. She previously served as head of the operations sector for Palantir in Israel, a company specializing in combat management systems that have garnered significant interest since its IPO on Wall Street. Additionally, she was a partner at Vintage Investment Partners.
This morning (Monday), its first fundraising round was revealed, raising $11 million from Sequoia Capital. Even before completing the round, the investment fund Lux had already expressed interest in leading another fundraising round, and within a short time, Series A was completed at a total of $28 million.
Surprising Investment: The CIA’s Investment Arm
Among the prominent investors in the company is In-Q-Tel, the CIA’s investment arm, which focuses on advancing innovative technologies with practical potential in security and intelligence fields.
The fund’s investment indicates the strategic importance attributed by the United States to the development of this platform, aimed at helping Western armies rapidly integrate advanced technologies. The company, which currently employs about 25 people, is expected to expand significantly to meet the growing demand from security entities that have already expressed interest in its capabilities.
