Shield AI
Builds Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT drones, and the X-BAT fighter in development, with a planned production site near Seattle.
Overview
Shield AI develops Hivemind autonomy software and unmanned aircraft for defense applications. Its products include V-BAT and the X-BAT vertical-takeoff fighter in development. In September 2026, it named Des Moines, Washington, as the X-BAT production location and Newton, Kansas, as the flight-test and maintenance location. The X-BAT program targets production in 2029; this is a planned milestone.
Student Insights
Seattle is a current recruiting location
Summer 2027 manufacturing and electrical engineering internship postings include Seattle. These are specific advertised opportunities; regional employment projections describe future growth. Follow the linked postings for current availability.
Build hardware and testing experience
Consider a club electronics project, a documented manufacturing improvement, or a repeatable test with recorded results. Explain your contribution and what you learned. Compare the work with the requirements of the role you want.
AI Outlook
Hivemind supports autonomous missions and coordinated teams in environments where GPS and communications are unavailable. It is software used across aircraft platforms; each platform has its own development and deployment status.
- Hivemind mission autonomy
- Hivemind Enterprise development and testing tools
- V-BAT autonomous operations
- Planned Hivemind integration on X-BAT
Student Hiring
Typical Roles
Notable Programs
- Hivemind
- Hivemind Enterprise
- V-BAT
- X-BAT (in development)
Career Connections
AeroEd career pathways relevant to Shield AI.
Drone & UAV Ops
The fastest-growing frontier in aviation
Explore Pathway →Aerospace Engineer
Design what flies — and what flies beyond
Explore Pathway →Aerospace Manufacturing
Build what engineers dream up
Explore Pathway →Avionics Technician
The brains behind every cockpit
Explore Pathway →Aviation Maintenance
The hands that keep aircraft flying
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