Sequoia Capital Partner Shaun Maguire Hails 'Massive' Israeli Defense Tech Investment at Jerusalem Conference

Jerusalem – Shaun Maguire, a prominent partner at Sequoia Capital, lauded Israel's advancements in defense technology at The Jerusalem Post Diplomatic Conference on September 18, 2025. Maguire, a vocal supporter of Israel, described the developments as "MASSIVE Great work 👏" in a social media post, underscoring the strategic importance of the nation's innovation and resilience in global security. His remarks highlighted significant investments, including Sequoia's backing of Israeli defense tech startup Kela.

Kela, which recently emerged from stealth mode, is focused on developing a battlefield operating system utilizing artificial intelligence and advanced sensors. The company was founded by former officers from elite Israeli military intelligence units. In March 2025, Kela secured substantial initial funding, with Sequoia Capital co-leading the investment alongside In-Q-Tel, the venture capital arm of the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency.

Maguire has been a key proponent of Sequoia's strategic focus on Israeli defense technology. He co-authored an article on Sequoia's website titled "Partnering with Kela: Modern Defense for Israel and Western Allies," published in March 2025. This article detailed the firm's belief in Israel's capacity to develop cutting-edge security solutions crucial for Western allies. The investment in Kela aims to significantly upgrade Israel's internal defense capabilities and position the country as a global leader in security technologies.

The Sequoia partner's strong endorsement comes amidst a growing trend of venture capital firms investing in defense technology, particularly in Israel, following recent geopolitical events. Kela's technology is described as "battle-tested," reflecting its practical application and effectiveness. Maguire's public statements and Sequoia's investments underscore the increasing recognition of Israel's pivotal role in the evolving landscape of global defense and security innovation.