Finance, Taxes, Insurance
Autonomous Flight Pioneer Merlin Seeks Capital through IPO
Merlin is combining its business with a special-purpose acquisition company called Bleichroeder
Merlin Pilot auto pilot flying with a Cessna Caravan in New Zealand
The Merlin Pilot autopilot has been tested on Cessna Caravan aircraft in New Zealand.

Autonomous flight control system developer Merlin is preparing to raise capital through an initial public offering by combining its business with Bleichroeder, a special-purpose acquisition company. The U.S. start-up said on August 15 that it aims to complete the transaction on the Nasdaq stock market in early 2026 and expects to raise up to $385 million.

Merlin’s objective is to become a leading contractor converting military aircraft to autonomous operations using its Merlin Pilot system. It has a $105 million contract from the U.S. Special Operations Command to integrate the system in the C-130J aircraft, and a similar agreement with the U.S. Air Force covering the KC-135 refueling platform.