Shield AI logo
AI/ML
Security
Space/Defense

Shield AI

AI software & autonomous aircraft for defense

South San Francisco· 12 rolesOverland Park· 4 rolesOrlando· 3 roles

CORE INFO

$1.5B
Total Funding
Series D+
Round
2015
Founded
1000+
Team Size
San Diego, California, United States
Headquarters

Shield AI develops AI software and autonomous aircraft designed for military use, enabling operations in environments where traditional navigation and communication systems fail. Their technology is primarily utilized by the U.S. military and allied forces.

  • Shield AI secured $1.5 billion in a Series G funding round led by Advent International, reaching a valuation of $12.7 billion.techcrunch.com
  • The company's flagship AI pilot, Hivemind, has been integrated into over two dozen vehicle types, including the F-16 fighter jet and the V-BAT surveillance drone.stockanalysis.com
  • Shield AI's clients include major branches of the U.S. military and international forces such as the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the Brazil Armed Forces.forbes.com

WHY WE WOULD WORK AT SHIELD AI

Innovative Technology

Join a team pioneering AI-driven autonomous aircraft like Hivemind, which operates without human intervention in GPS-denied environments.

Mission-Driven Work

Contribute to a mission that prioritizes the safety of service members and civilians through cutting-edge defense technology.

Rapid Growth

Be part of a rapidly growing company valued at $12.7 billion, with significant revenue projections exceeding $540 million for 2026.

Collaborative Culture

Work alongside a diverse team of over 1,000 professionals dedicated to innovation and excellence in aerospace and defense.

Competitive Compensation

Benefit from attractive compensation packages supported by substantial funding, including a recent $1.5 billion Series G round.

Notable Clients

Engage with prestigious clients like the U.S. Air Force and allied international militaries, making a real impact on global defense capabilities.

MARKET AND TRACTION

TOTAL ADDRESSABLE MARKET

  • Shield AI operates within the aerospace and defense technology sector, focusing on military applications.

  • The demand for autonomous systems and AI solutions in defense is increasing, driven by the need for enhanced operational capabilities in contested environments.

  • Shield AI's technology addresses critical gaps in military operations, particularly in GPS-denied areas, positioning the company favorably in a growing market.
  • KEY METRICS

    ✦ KEY METRIC
  • Total funding raised by Shield AI amounts to $1.5 billion in its most recent Series G funding round, valuing the company at $12.7 billion.

  • Projected revenue for 2026 is over $540 million, indicating significant growth potential and market demand for its products.

  • The company has integrated its flagship product, Hivemind, into over two dozen types of military vehicles, showcasing its operational versatility.
  • NOTABLE CUSTOMERS

  • Shield AI's primary clients include the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Marine Corps, reflecting strong ties with the U.S. military.

  • International clients include the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the Brazil Armed Forces, indicating a growing global presence in defense contracts.

  • These partnerships highlight Shield AI's credibility and the trust placed in its technology by leading military organizations.
  • MARKET POSITION

  • Shield AI is positioned as a leader in the development of AI-powered autonomous systems for military applications.

  • The company's recent valuation growth of 140% following a U.S. Air Force deal underscores its competitive advantage and market confidence.

  • With ongoing innovations like the X-BAT combat jet, Shield AI is set to expand its influence in the defense sector further.
  • GROWTH TACTICS

  • Shield AI focuses on continuous innovation in AI and autonomous technologies to enhance military operational capabilities.

  • The company actively seeks partnerships with defense agencies and allied governments to secure contracts and expand its market reach.

  • By integrating its technology into existing military platforms, Shield AI aims to increase adoption and reliance on its systems in defense operations.
  • PRODUCT AND TECH

    Hivemind AI Pilot

    Hivemind is Shield AI's flagship product, serving as an AI pilot that enables aircraft to operate autonomously in GPS-denied environments, significantly reducing the need for human intervention and enhancing mission effectiveness.

    V-BAT Surveillance Drone

    The V-BAT is an autonomous surveillance drone developed by Shield AI, designed for military applications, providing real-time intelligence and reconnaissance capabilities in challenging environments.

    X-BAT Combat Jet

    The X-BAT is an upcoming combat jet being developed by Shield AI, aimed at integrating advanced AI technologies for enhanced operational capabilities in modern warfare.

    Autonomy Software Solutions

    Shield AI specializes in developing autonomy software that allows various aircraft platforms to operate independently, improving safety and efficiency in military operations.

    Military Contracts and Partnerships

    Shield AI generates revenue through contracts with the U.S. military and allied governments, supplying advanced aircraft and AI solutions that enhance defense capabilities.

    COMPANY CULTURE

    Values

  • Innovation is at the core of our mission

  • Commitment to protecting service members and civilians

  • Emphasis on autonomy and intelligent systems

  • Integrity in all operations and partnerships

  • Collaboration across teams to enhance capabilities
  • Operating Principles

  • Focus on developing cutting-edge AI technologies

  • Prioritize safety and reliability in defense applications

  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement and learning

  • Encourage open communication and feedback among teams

  • Adaptability to rapidly changing environments and challenges
  • Benefits

  • Competitive compensation packages

  • Opportunities for professional development and growth

  • Comprehensive health and wellness programs

  • Flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance

  • Engaging work environment with a mission-driven focus
  • Team Cadence

  • Regular team meetings to align on goals and progress

  • Bi-weekly check-ins to discuss challenges and successes

  • Monthly all-hands meetings to share company updates

  • Continuous collaboration across departments for project success

  • Agile methodologies to adapt to project needs
  • Learning & Growth

  • Access to training programs in AI and defense technologies

  • Mentorship opportunities with industry leaders

  • Support for attending conferences and workshops

  • Encouragement of innovative thinking and experimentation

  • Resources for personal and professional development
  • HIRING SIGNAL

    21
    Open roles on their careers page
    Snapshot via live ATS poll
    —
    Net new roles in the last 90 days
    Available once weekly history accrues
    90-Day VelocityV2 · BACKFILL
    Trend builds weekly as historical rows accrue
    By Function
    Breakdown of open roles
    Data · 1
    Design · 2
    Product · 1
    Operations · 2
    Engineering · 15
    Top Locations
    Where hiring is concentrated
    Remote-eligible postings counted separately
    South San Francisco, CA
    9
    Orlando, FL
    3
    Overland Park, KS
    3
    Farmer's Branch, Texas
    2
    South San Francisco, California
    2
    South San Francisco
    1
    Overland Park, Kansas
    1
    SourcesGreenhouseLeverAshbyWorkableSmartRecruitersRipplingRecruiteeFallback · Wellfound, YC Work-at-a-Startup, careers-page scrape

    KEY COMPANY ANNOUNCEMENTS

    Filter
    11 announcements · ranked by importance
    Mar 26, 2026PRESSDefense startup Shield AI lands $12.7B valuation, up 140%, after US Air Force deal | TechCrunchtechcrunch.com
    Mar 1, 2025FUNDINGShield AI raises $240M at $5.3B valuation to scale Hivemind Enterprise, an AI-powered autonomy developer platform – Shield AIshield.ai
    Oct 31, 2023FUNDINGShield AI raises $200M at a $2.7B valuation to scale military autonomous flying tech | TechCrunchtechcrunch.com
    Aug 3, 2026FOUNDER PROFILEBattlefield To Boardroom: The Veteran Founders Riding Defense Tech’s $32 Billion Boomshield.ai
    Jul 10, 2026MILESTONEAmerican-made technology guiding Ukraine’s strikes into Russiashield.ai
    Jun 22, 2026MILESTONEShield AI completes acquisition of Aechelon Technologyshield.ai
    Jan 22, 2025PRESSExclusive: Shield AI delivering V-BAT drones to Japan's navy early this yearaxios.com
    Jul 20, 2026PRODUCTShield AI and GE Aerospace light off X-BAT engine, completing thrust vectoring nozzle integration and clearing path to vertical flightshield.ai
    Aug 24, 2026MILESTONEShield AI and Sedaro demonstrate trusted autonomy capabilities on NOVI satelliteshield.ai
    Jul 16, 2026MILESTONEL3Harris and Shield AI complete autonomous electronic warfare flight testshield.ai
    Sep 17, 2026PRESSDefense Autonomy Needs to Train, like Humans, In Simulationshield.ai