Shield AI has acquired a flight analytics tool from Crowdbotics to bolster its AI-driven flight systems.
Data Driven Readiness (DDR) is a tool designed to analyze mission data and evaluate pilot performance.
Originally built for fighter pilots to refine their skills, DDR will now be embedded into Shield AI’s Hivemind autonomy system, which powers AI-driven aircraft.
The integration of DDR into Hivemind will enhance mission execution, provide post-flight analysis, and drive continuous performance improvement, all based on objective, data-driven insights.
“Building trust between human pilots and AI pilots is essential for embracing advanced autonomy and concepts such as manned-unmanned teaming,” said Christian Gutierrez, VP of Hivemind Solutions at Shield AI.
He noted that DDR will strengthen Hivemind’s ability to process flight data and improve mission planning, execution, and review.
Julian Capps, formerly with Crowdbotics and now part of the Shield AI team, described DDR as “best in class for analyzing flight data and pilot proficiency.”
The move aligns with Shield AI’s mission to deliver advanced autonomous defense solutions, he added.
Shield AI Expands Autonomous Flight Systems
This acquisition comes as Shield AI further expands its autonomous systems portfolio, including a recent upgrade to its V-BAT unmanned aerial system.
The new V-BAT features a heavy fuel engine compatible with JP-5 jet fuel, offering extended flight times of over 13 hours.
It operates with the Hivemind system and is equipped for long-range missions, carrying payloads like electronic warfare equipment, wide-area motion imagery, and synthetic aperture radar.
