49. Shield AI
https://www.cnbc.com/2026/05/19/shield-ai-cnbc-disruptor-50-ranking.html
Publish Date: 2026-05-19 05:40:00
Source Domain: www.cnbc.com
- Founding and Leadership: Shield AI was founded in 2015 by Ryan Tseng, Brandon Tseng, and Andrew Reiter, and is currently led by CEO Gary Steele, who was appointed in 2025.
- Headquarters and Expansion: The company is headquartered in San Diego, California, and has expanded its operations to locations such as Ukraine, Oslo, Taiwan, and Hyderabad, India.
- Innovations and Key Technologies: Shield AI focuses on developing advanced defense technologies including AI-piloted autonomous systems, vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft, and software with continuous updates.
- Disruptive Products: The company’s X-BAT, a VTOL jet-powered fighter, and its existing V-BAT drone, which has intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, are key products.
- Significant Funding and Valuation: Shield AI secured $1.5 billion in March 2026, raising its valuation to $12.7 billion, more than double its valuation in 2025.
- Military and Global Collaborations: Shield AI has collaborated with various international entities, including the Ukrainian armed forces, NATO allies in Oslo, and regional market expansions in Asia and Europe.
- Key Defense Contracts and Military Partnerships: The V-BAT has picked up significant contracts and is being considered for up to $800 million in Navy contracts for ISR. Shield AI has also partnered with Singapore and Anduril for collaborative initiatives.
- R&D and Future Prospects: Shield AI is committed to enhancing its position in the global defense sector through continuous R&D, and the long-term growth of the company is driven by its software and AI capabilities.
