Shield AI Raises $240 Million to Expand Hivemind

Founded in 2015 and based in San Diego, California, Shield AI is a leading U.S. defense technology company. It builds AI-powered autonomous systems for military use. At the heart of its innovation is Hivemind, a software platform that allows drones and aircraft to fly without GPS or communications, even in contested environments.

Shield AI has successfully deployed its technology in real-world military operations. These include autonomous flights of F-16 fighter jets and missions using the company’s V-BAT drones. As demand for intelligent military tools grows, Shield AI is stepping into a larger role.

What Is the Mission and Vision of Shield AI?

The team’s mission is to protect service members and civilians with intelligent machines. Their long-term vision is clear: bring AI autonomy into military operations to boost efficiency, reduce risk, and shift decision-making into real time.

Core Technology and Products

The company’s flagship software, Hivemind, functions as an AI pilot. It allows aircraft to operate independently in denied environments. This makes it valuable for missions where traditional controls fail.

Another major product is the V-BAT drone system. These swarming UAVs can be flown in groups by a single operator, with onboard AI continuously adjusting flight paths and responding to mission updates.

Market Position and Traction

Shield AI is already working with the U.S. military and allied forces. Its technology is gaining ground internationally as well. For example, Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force recently selected the company’s V-BAT drones for maritime surveillance. This deal highlights Shield AI’s growing global presence.

Recent Fundraising Round

In March 2025, the company closed a $240 million Series F-1 round, pushing its valuation to $5.3 billion. Leading backers include L3Harris, Hanwha Asset Management, Andreessen Horowitz, Riot Ventures, and the U.S. Innovation Technology Fund.

The new capital will help expand Hivemind Enterprise, a version of the platform tailored for use by governments, OEMs, and defense-focused manufacturers. This move allows others to build on the architecture and apply autonomy across a wider range of aerial systems.

Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations

Through strategic partnerships, the company continues to accelerate its reach. A notable collaboration with Booz Allen Hamilton is helping deliver AI-powered autonomy solutions directly to the Department of Defense. These alliances streamline adoption while reinforcing the company’s influence in defense innovation.

Why Shield AI Is a Company to Watch

Autonomous systems are rapidly becoming foundational to the evolution of modern defense strategy. In today’s high-threat environments, the ability to deploy unmanned systems that can make real-time decisions without relying on GPS or external communication is a critical advantage. The company’s AI pilot software exemplifies this shift, demonstrating precision, adaptability, and resilience under combat conditions. Its drone platforms are not only mission-ready—they’re designed for scalability across a range of operational scenarios, from air dominance to intelligence gathering. With deep institutional support, trusted partners across the defense ecosystem, and a focus on integrating autonomy into legacy and next-generation platforms alike, Shield AI is helping to define what effective, AI-driven military infrastructure looks like in the 21st century.

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