AI Conquers the Skies: Moonshot Expands Portfolio With Breakthrough Autonomous AI Pilot Creator

In an era in which AI has become ubiquitous, Shield AI stands out by literally taking the technology to new heights. While AI-driven cars are becoming commonplace, this company is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the sky, creating the ultimate AI pilot for a diverse range of aircraft, from agile drones to sophisticated F-16 jets.

As a Navy SEAL, Shield AI co-founder Brandon Tseng encountered situations in which intelligent autonomy could have made life-saving differences. These experiences led Tseng to imagine what the military could look like in 2030, and to consider the crucial role that autonomous systems could play in the future.

The answer — AI pilots powering every military asset: aircraft, drones, ships, satellites, and submarines.
– Shield AI co-founder Brandon Tseng

This became the guiding star for Shield AI, a company that has quickly ascended the ranks in the defense technology sector as one of the top 100 private AI companies, according to CB Insights. Today, Shield AI, a cutting-edge defense technology company, has become available as a new investment opportunity to the Moonshot investor community.

Up to 6.4x

Projected return

USD 5’000

Minimum investment

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How AI Got Its Wings – Hivemind as the First & Only Autonomous AI Pilot

Shield AI’s Hivemind offers groundbreaking AI autonomy, functioning like an experienced human pilot without relying on GPS, pre-programmed waypoints, or constant communication. Hivemind outmaneuvered F-16 pilots during the AlphaDogfight Trials, highlighting its potential to revolutionize aerial combat across jets, drones (which the company manufactures), and unmanned aircraft systems.

Shield AI also developed Nova 2, dubbed the “Most Mission Capable Indoor Drone” by the US and Israeli forces. Guided by Hivemind, Nova 2 navigates complex interiors with precision. Additionally, the V-BAT drone, capable of vertical take-off and landing, operates solo or in large fleets, with Hivemind enabling real-time adaptation to changing environments and circumstances.

Our NOVA quadcopter, it would go inside buildings and it would find threats, it would map out the building, it would clear the building all by itself without anybody piloting it. GPS didn’t matter, communications didn’t matter, it would accomplish the mission.
– Explained Shield AI co-founder Brandon Tseng

A video illustration of how V-BAT Teams work
Source: Shield AI

Shield AI’s Hivemind, coupled with their innovative hardware like Nova 2 and V-BAT, isn’t just advancing autonomous flight; it’s redefining it. From dogfights in the open skies to delicate indoor operations, Shield AI is proving that the future of AI flight is here, now.

Why Does Moonshot Believe in Shield AI?

1) Strategic partnership

Shield AI already has partnerships with the U.S. Air Force, Boeing, and Northrop Grumman. A significant recent deal includes a USD 198 million contract with the U.S. Coast Guard for the V-BAT unmanned aircraft system.

Another key milestone for Shield AI was the integration of Hivemind into the Kratos Tactical Firejet, marking it as the sixth aircraft to be autonomously piloted by this cutting-edge AI technology.

A video illustration of the Hivemind AI pilot on the Kratos Tactical Firejet
Source: Shield AI

2) Substantial market potential

The global defense market reached USD 1.7 trillion in 2022, driven by geopolitical tensions and the urgent need to replenish arms stockpiles. Defense forces are increasingly turning to startups and heavily investing in AI. For example, the U.S. Department of Defense has allocated USD 1.8 billion in its 2024 budget for AI initiatives, while China invests approximately USD 1.6 billion annually in AI-enabled systems. Shield AI, in turn, has already signed a contract with VSK Tactical to provide Brazil with their V-BAT unmanned aircraft systems.

3) Significant revenue growth

Powered by lucrative contracts and strategic acquisitions, Shield AI saw a substantial revenue boost, reaching USD 165 million in 2023 – a 94% increase from around USD 85 million in 2022. Furthermore, the company expects to produce nearly USD 750 million in annual sales and reach USD 100 million in profit by 2026.

4) Innovative business model

Apart from contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense, Shield AI focuses on its own research and development, presenting a fully developed product line. This proactive strategy allows the company to target a 40-50% margin profile, significantly higher than the typical 5-10% profit margin seen in conventional defense contracting.

Visit moonshot.ch/investment/shield-ai/ to learn more about how to become a part of the future of defense technology.

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