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Former Australian prime minister and ambassador of Australia to the US, Dr Kevin Rudd, has toured the headquarters of American aerial drone manufacturer Shield AI.
The American defence company produces the V-BAT vertical take-off and landing, AI-based uncrewed aerial system for military, border protection, law enforcement, search and rescue, climate surveillance and disaster management operations.
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In addition, Shield AI has previously signed an agreement with Toll Aviation in 2023 to conduct demonstrator flights in Australia and offer a full V-BAT operator and maintainer type endorsement course at the ACE Training Centre in Sydney in conjunction with Shield AI.
“Australia is committed to becoming the AI hub of the Indo-Pacific,” ambassador Rudd said.
“We have the space, the energy and the innovation US companies need to make an impact.
“Great to visit the Shield AI headquarters in San Diego. They’ve acquired an Aussie company and are making big investments Down Under.”
Shield AI has previously acquired Victoria-based advanced sensors developer Sentient Vision Systems in 2024.
“Our ongoing US–Australia investment is already delivering operational artificial intelligence and ISR capabilities from within Australia, directly supporting Australia’s sovereign defence priorities and advancing AUKUS Pillar Two objectives,” according to a statement from Shield AI.
“This visit follows our acquisition of Australia-based Sentient Vision Systems and recent additional investment into Australia, including the opening of a new office in Melbourne.
“We look forward to future conversations with ambassador Rudd as we continue to provide high-end tech, platform design and cross-domain ISR capability aligned with the Australian Defence Force’s needs. Autonomy for the world. The greatest victory requires no war.”
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