Palo Alto Networks has confirmed that it’s acquiring Protect AI, a U.S.-based cybersecurity company focused on securing AI systems and machine learning pipelines. This move is aimed squarely at expanding Palo Alto’s capabilities to protect against the growing threat landscape tied to artificial intelligence models.

Protect AI has developed a platform that helps organizations with AI red teaming, runtime protection, and securing the entire AI/ML lifecycle. Palo Alto says the acquisition will be used to enhance its Prisma AIRS platform, which is designed to safeguard the new and rapidly growing AI attack surface.

The deal is expected to close in Q1 of FY2026, and Protect AI’s CEO, founders, and employees will be joining Palo Alto Networks as part of the transition. While no official price tag was disclosed, Israeli media outlet Globes reported the value at $650–$700 million, citing sources familiar with the matter.

That estimate lines up with Protect AI’s valuation of $400 million in August 2024, following its $60 million Series B funding round. The company’s sharp growth and focus on securing AI-specific workflows clearly played a role in Palo Alto’s decision to move.

This isn’t Palo Alto’s first big move in cybersecurity M&A. In 2023, the company acquired Talon, a secure enterprise browser provider, for a reported $625 million, and Dig Security, a cloud security startup, for around $400 million. Now, with Protect AI in the mix, Palo Alto is making it clear that AI-native security is a top priority.

As more businesses integrate AI into their operations, the security implications are catching up quickly—and this deal signals that major players are investing heavily to stay ahead.