Watchtower Labs, co-founded by former Marine Corps officer Akhil Iyer and Microsoft veterans Souren Aghajanyan and John Morman, secures $35M to develop AI-driven logistics planning for military operations. The startup’s software simulates resource allocation—such as fuel, munitions, and medical supplies—using plain-language queries and optimization models, while retaining human decision-making authority. Watchtower won a prototype contract from the Defense Innovation Unit’s Joint Sustainment Decision Tool program, collaborating with U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and Northern Command. The company plans to expand beyond logistics into broader operational planning, with 30 employees across Bellevue, San Francisco, Hawaii, and D.C., aiming to double headcount by relocating to a larger Bellevue office.
Oct 2026GeekWireNews article
Watchtower Labs, co-founded by Shield Capital’s Raj Shah and led by CEO Akhil Iyer, launches a $35M-funded AI-driven logistics software suite for defense planners. The tool uses natural language queries and discrete-event simulations to model supply chain risks—such as anti-air missile shortages or cyber disruptions—returning actionable contingencies via a custom dashboard. Backed by Shield, Conviction, In-Q-Tel, and Founders Fund, Watchtower already supports early contracts with major U.S. operational commands and aims to replace manual Excel-based planning in high-stakes scenarios.
Oct 2026Upstarts MediaNews article
The U.S. Marine Corps releases its Ground Combat Element 2040 strategic framework. The framework prioritizes modular multi-domain ground forces, technology integration, and expanded littoral formations through 2040.
Aug 2026Seapower MagazineNews article
The U.S. Marine Corps demonstrates beyond-line-of-sight command and control from a Valkyrie aircraft during a flight demonstration at a test range. The flight forms part of the Corps’ experimentation with unmanned and autonomous aviation.
Aug 2026Seapower MagazineNews article
