After years of investing in conventional weaponry, Taiwan is embracing autonomous capabilities to modernize its defense strategy.
That shift is on full display as Shield AI inked a new agreement with the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) to support the development and fielding of AI-enabled unmanned systems.
NCSIST, the country’s primary defense research and development body, will work with Shield AI’s Hivemind software to accelerate the deployment of AI “pilots” capable of operating multiple unmanned systems simultaneously from a single controller.
A key aim is to reduce operator workload and extend mission endurance, enabling more complex operations with fewer personnel.
‘Indigenizing’ Taiwan’s AI Pilots
The partnership goes beyond coding, covering both software development and operational validation.
Using Hivemind’s software development kit, NCSIST will tailor autonomy stacks for domestically built platforms.
Hivemind is expected to push these systems beyond scripted flight paths, activating high levels of autonomy in contested environments.
Instead of just following pre-planned routes, the software adapts in real time — rerouting around obstacles, navigating restricted airspace, and continuing missions even if GPS or communications are lost.
These capabilities rely on onboard processing and simulation-driven training, letting the systems operate independently without constant human oversight.
Broader Vision
The collaboration aims to widen the use of autonomous software across Taiwan’s unmanned fleet, laying the groundwork for broader operational adoption.
“Over the next five years, you will see Shield AI continue to grow and invest in Taiwan and the defense of Taiwan,” said Brandon Tseng, President and Co-founder of Shield AI.
The effort builds on the company’s recent expansion in Taiwan’s defense sector, following earlier cooperation with Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation to strengthen local aerospace capabilities and support joint technological development.
