Taipei: American defense firm Shield AI has announced a significant partnership with Taiwan's National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) to enhance the development of AI-piloted unmanned systems. These systems are designed to operate effectively even when communication channels are disrupted.
According to Focus Taiwan, the collaboration will see Shield AI's Hivemind autonomous software platform integrated into NCSIST's unmanned systems. This partnership aims to cover both software development and operational deployment aspects. Hivemind allows drones to autonomously perceive their environment, make decisions, and execute missions without direct human intervention.
The AI software differs from traditional autopilot systems by dynamically adjusting flight paths, avoiding obstacles, and responding to unforeseen challenges. It utilizes simulation-based training, AI development tools, and onboard edge computing to function effectively in environments where GPS and communications are compromised.
Ensuring operational capability under GPS jamming is a growing priority for global militaries, given the increasing role of unmanned systems in warfare. Under this agreement, NCSIST will leverage Hivemind to accelerate the creation of domestically developed AI pilots for autonomous missions and coordinated multi-system operations. This capability will enable a single operator to control multiple drones from one ground station, addressing manpower constraints.
Shield AI's collaboration with NCSIST follows its previous teaming agreement with Taiwan's Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC) and the opening of a new office at Taipei 101 last year.