Shield AI Brings Hivemind to Taiwan’s Thunder Tiger Uncrewed Systems
Shield AI is set to integrate its Hivemind artificial intelligence (AI)-driven autonomy software into Taiwan-based Thunder Tiger’s portfolio of uncrewed systems.
The companies’ memorandum of understanding aims to validate coordinated teaming between multiple autonomous systems. It establishes a phased integration and testing effort that includes simulation-based testing, hardware-in-the-loop integration, and live vehicle trials.
Hivemind will initially be integrated into a Thunder Tiger uncrewed surface vessel (USV) for a live demonstration planned this summer, showcasing autonomous navigation, response, and maritime mission execution capabilities.
The Hivemind AI pilot has been tested and integrated primarily across aerial platforms, such as GA-ASI’s MQ-20 Avenger drone and the Airbus H145 helicopter.
It made its first maritime deployment aboard a ROMULUS 20 USV during a dual-autonomy integration test in October 2025.
Hivemind in Taiwan
Shield AI has been collaborating with Taiwanese entities to supply its mission autonomy software and support the country’s drone defense efforts.
In September 2025, it partnered with Taiwan’s Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation to cover sustainment, training, autonomy integration, and other technical activities to facilitate the deployment and support of Shield AI’s products in Taiwan.
The US defense technology firm also opened an office in Taipei within the same month.
It further deepened its footprint across the country with a February 2026 agreement with the state-owned National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology to accelerate the deployment of AI pilots across multiple uncrewed systems.
The latest deal with Thunder Tiger is “about getting Taiwan the asymmetric capabilities needed to deter conflict and is part of a broader strategy to support Taiwan,” said Brandon Tseng, Shield AI Co-founder.
