Redefining Autonomy, Sibling Co-Founders, and Shield AI with Brandon Tseng

On this episode of The Startup Defense, Callye Keen speaks with Brandon Tseng, former Navy SEAL and co-founder of Shield AI, a company at the forefront of defense technology, specializing in AI-driven autonomous systems. In this episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of AI from concept to implementation in military aviation, including autonomous F-16 dogfights and the broader implications for future warfare.

Brandon shares his transition from Navy SEAL to tech entrepreneur, driven by a deep passion for enhancing national security and global stability through advanced technology. He discusses the inception of Shield AI with his brother Ryan, their challenges, and the vision that propels their innovations.

Key highlights of this episode include:

• AI in Aviation vs. Autonomous Vehicles: Brandon outlines why AI in aviation presents a technically simpler challenge compared to autonomous driving, despite high stakes.
• From SEAL to CEO: Explore Brandon's journey from the military to co-founding a leading AI firm, including the challenges of aligning a start-up with defense sector needs.
• Autonomous F-16s: Insights into Shield AI's groundbreaking work in fully autonomous dogfighting with F-16s, showcasing the advanced capabilities and potential of AI in combat scenarios.
• The Path to Autonomy: Brandon discusses "climbing the aviation food chain," a strategy to integrate AI across various military platforms, starting with simpler systems and moving towards more complex applications.
• Working with Family: The dynamics and benefits of founding and scaling a high-stakes tech startup with a sibling.
• Future of Shield AI: Brandon touches on upcoming initiatives and the strategic focus on expanding AI applications across different military domains, reinforcing their mission to protect service members and civilians effectively.

Brandon's insights are not just about the evolution of military tech but also about the perseverance required to innovate within the tightly regulated defense sector. His reflections on working alongside his brother, the iterative process of securing funding, and navigating the complexities of defense acquisitions provide a compelling roadmap for any entrepreneur looking to make an impact.

For anyone fascinated by the intersection of technology, entrepreneurship, and defense, this episode is a must-listen, offering a deep dive into the future of warfare where AI pilots are no longer the stuff of science fiction but a rapidly approaching reality. Tune in to explore how Shield AI is shaping the future of defense technology through innovation and strategic execution.

About Brandon Tseng
Brandon Tseng is Shield AI’s Co-Founder, President, and Chief Growth Officer. Previously, Brandon proudly served in the Navy for seven years as a SEAL and Surface Warfare Officer aboard USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52). He founded Shield AI – with the mission to protect service members and civilians with intelligent systems – driven by firsthand experiences during deployments to Afghanistan (x2), the Pacific Theater, and the Arabian Gulf. At Shield AI, he leads all aspects of growth – business development, corporate development, strategy, marketing, and government relations – to help Shield AI achieve its mission at a global scale. Brandon earned his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy and his MBA from Harvard Business School.

Learn More
https://shield.ai/