Salesforce acquires defense AI startup Rune Technologies for reported 375 million dollars

Salesforce, Inc. announced on October 29 that it has agreed to acquire Rune Technologies, a defense artificial intelligence software startup, Chosunbiz and TechCrunch Startups reported. TechCrunch Startups, TechInAsia, and BigGo Finance reported that the deal is valued at 375 million dollars in cash and stock, citing Resilience Media. [1][2][4][8]

Rune Technologies develops AI software designed to assist the military in forecasting supply needs and managing logistics, Chosunbiz and TechCrunch Startups reported. Chosunbiz added that the technology functions in environments with limited or no network connectivity. According to TechInAsia, Rune was founded in 2024 and had raised 30 million dollars prior to the acquisition. [1][2][4]

The U.S. Army and Marine Corps already use technology built by Rune, Chosunbiz and TechInAsia reported. Pulse 2.0 reported that Rune also serves allied nations. Salesforce did not disclose specific transaction terms when it announced the deal, Chosunbiz noted. [1][4][5]

The deal is intended to expand Missionforce, the Salesforce business unit that serves defense and national security agencies, according to Chosunbiz and TechCrunch Startups. TechCrunch Startups reported that Missionforce has grown 80 percent year over year since its launch last year, supported in part by a 10-year, 5.6 billion dollar contract with the U.S. Army. [1][2]