Shield AI’s New AI-Piloted Fighter Drone Is Straight Out Of Sci-Fi

Multiple startups all the way to defense giants like Lockheed Martin are betting that a new generation of advanced drones will define the future of warfare. Shield AI gave CNBC an exclusive first look at the X-BAT, its new AI-powered fighter jet. The company has quickly become a rising force in defense technology, reaching a $5.3 billion valuation after raising $240 million in its latest funding round. Still, it’s competing against established defense primes like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman — and has yet to turn a profit. Watch the video to see how Shield AI is trying to stand out in a crowded field.

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
1:07 Chapter 1: Rise of Shield AI
6:36 Chapter 2: AI-powered combat
8:55 Chapter 3: A new era of war

Produced and Shot by: Andrew Ever, Ryan Baker
Edited by: Andrew Evers, Andrea Miller
Animation by: Jason Reginato, Emily Park
Senior Director of Video: Jeniece Pettitt
Additional Footage: Getty Images, Shield AI, Lockheed Martin, Aduril, General Atomics

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Shield AI’s New AI-Piloted Fighter Drone Is Straight Out Of Sci-Fi

Post from CNBC on October 21, 2025

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