Jetstream Venture Fund has taken an interest in Shield AI, a firm developing artificial intelligence software that allows aircraft and drones to operate without pilots or continuous communications.
This forms part of Jetstream’s Future of Air and Space strategy, which targets companies building next-generation autonomous systems across defense and aerospace.
Founded in 2015, Shield AI is known for its Hivemind system, an AI pilot designed to operate in GPS-denied and communications-contested environments.
The software has been integrated into multiple platforms, including the V-BAT drone and fighter jet demonstrations, and is currently used by US and allied forces.
Shield AI joins a portfolio of companies positioned to benefit from the expanding market for AI-driven aviation technologies.
“What differentiates Shield AI is the fusion of advanced autonomy software with proven operational systems,” Jetstream portfolio manager Mike Shufeldt said.
Shield AI Expands
Shield AI systems are showing increasing presence across US defense programs.
In April, the company joined a US Navy program to provide intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance services using its V-BAT drone. The $800-million initiative pits multiple firms against each other under a contractor-owned, contractor-operated model for naval and joint operations.
The US Air Force selected Shield AI in February to provide mission autonomy software for a Collaborative Combat Aircraft prototype.
Shield AI is also building its footprint outside the US.
In March, the Royal Netherlands Navy approved V-BAT drones for operational use after successful trials aboard HNLMS Johan de Witt during operations near Norway.
The company also signed an agreement with Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology in February to advance AI-enabled unmanned systems.
The partnership will use Hivemind software to speed up deployment of AI “pilots” capable of controlling multiple drones from a single operator.
