RTX and Shield AI have announced a strategic collaboration to integrate Shield AI’s cutting-edge autonomy technology into select RTX defense platforms, including loitering munitions and advanced sensor systems. This alliance aims to equip U.S. and allied military forces with next-generation autonomous solutions that enhance mission effectiveness and operational advantage.
As part of this partnership, RTX will embed Shield AI’s Hivemind software into its systems to deliver the first operational weapon system powered by Networked Collaborative Autonomy (NCA). This revolutionary capability enables real-time coordination among autonomous assets, combining resilience with combat-proven lethality. Notably, the initiative will be entirely self-funded by both companies, with no reliance on government financing.
“AI and autonomy continue to enhance the performance of our products,” said RTX Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Chris Calio. “In partnership with Shield AI, we will deliver critical new solutions that will create a competitive advantage for our customers.”
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“RTX’s defense systems paired with Hivemind, which delivers mission autonomy for intelligent, collaborative operations, create powerful new capabilities for the warfighter,” said Gary Steele, CEO, Shield AI. “This collaboration reflects how the defense ecosystem is evolving – bringing the best of autonomy and hardware to bear on national security challenges.”
The partnership will also integrate Shield AI’s Visual Detection and Ranging (ViDAR) technology with RTX’s Multi-Spectral Targeting System (MTS). This integration will enable AI-driven sensor autonomy, specifically targeting maritime and airborne swarm threats, and is designed for rapid deployment to meet the needs of existing MTS customers.