Shield AI, a defense technology company based in San Diego, is currently negotiating a new funding round. The startup aims to reach a valuation of at least $20 billion, which would mark a 60% increase from its previous valuation of $12.7 billion established in March 2026.
The company's financial performance shows significant growth, with projected revenue for 2026 expected to exceed $540 million, representing an increase of over 80% year-over-year. In March 2026, the firm successfully closed a $2 billion Series G round, consisting of $1.5 billion in equity and $500 million in preferred equity.
The core of the company's technology is Hivemind, an autonomous software platform that enables drones and aircraft to operate without GPS. In June 2026, the US Air Force awarded the company a production contract to integrate this software into its Collaborative Combat Aircraft program.
Shield AI manufactures the V-BAT vertical takeoff and landing drone, currently used by several branches of the US military. The company is also developing the X-BAT combat aircraft for autonomous swarms and has signed a letter of intent with Polish firms PGZ and WZL-2 to explore development and licensing opportunities.
Additionally, Shield AI has entered into a licensing agreement with L3Harris for counter-UAS software. This partnership allows L3Harris to act as a distribution channel, providing the startup with expanded access to new programs and customers.
