# Mach Industries Secures $100 Million Funding to Fuel Defense Tech Innovation

## Mach Industries Secures $100 Million Funding to Fuel Defense Tech Innovation

Mach Industries, the defense technology startup founded by 21-year-old Ethan Thornton, is on the verge of closing a significant $100 million funding round, according to sources familiar with the deal. The round is co-led by new investor Khosla Ventures and existing investor Bedrock Capital, solidifying Mach’s position as a rising star in the defense sector.

The fresh capital injection values Mach Industries at approximately $470 million. While the deal is yet to be finalized, and terms are subject to change, this funding represents a major vote of confidence in Thornton’s vision and the company’s potential. Keith Rabois is reportedly leading the deal for Khosla Ventures.

Mach Industries has rapidly garnered attention, fueled by its compelling origin story and early backing from Sequoia Capital, marking Sequoia’s first foray into defense tech. Thornton, a former MIT student, founded Mach Industries while still a teenager, driven by a desire to revolutionize defense technology.

The startup is focused on developing cutting-edge solutions, including vertical liftoff vehicles and weapons systems capable of operating at the edge of space. Mach Industries is also innovating in manufacturing, developing smaller, easily deployable factories to rapidly scale production when needed.

The company’s innovative approach has already attracted the attention of the U.S. Army. In March, Mach Industries announced a partnership with the Army Applications Laboratory to develop “Strategic Strike,” a vertical takeoff precision cruise missile. The company also unveiled plans for its first factory, a 115,000-square-foot facility located in Huntington Beach, California.

With this new funding, Mach Industries’ total funding to date will reach approximately $185 million. Sequoia Capital led Mach’s $5.7 million seed round, announced in June 2023, while Geoff Lewis, founder of Bedrock Capital, spearheaded the $79 million Series A round a few months later, valuing the company at $335 million.

This latest funding round positions Mach Industries for continued growth and innovation in the defense technology landscape, allowing them to further develop their groundbreaking technologies and expand their manufacturing capabilities. The company’s focus on next-generation defense solutions, combined with the backing of prominent investors, suggests a promising future for this ambitious startup.