Brandon Tseng

In this lively discussion, Chris Power, CEO of Hadrian, and Akhil Iyer, Partner at Founders Fund, unpack the effects of Trump's tariffs on the stock market and American manufacturing. They explore economic fluctuations and investor sentiments towards re-industrialization. Fil Aronshtein shares insights on automation in manufacturing, while Zachary Perret sheds light on fintech's potential resurgence. The conversation takes a twist with Nathan Mintz discussing innovations in electronic warfare and Brandon Tseng on AI in defense, rounding out a fascinating look at technology's role in today’s economy.

Brandon Tseng, co-founder and president of Shield AI and a former Navy SEAL, reveals his journey from military service to leading a cutting-edge defense technology firm. He discusses the revolutionary capabilities of the X-BAT, the first AI fighter jet designed to surpass human pilots. Delving into his battlefield experiences, Tseng highlights how these shaped his vision for AI in warfare. He also predicts a future of autonomous swarms in combat, emphasizing the need for ethical AI in protecting service members while ensuring national security.

Brian Schimpf, co-founder and CEO of Anduril, and Brandon Tseng, co-founder of Shield AI, dive into the evolution of defense technology. They discuss how startups are reshaping the landscape traditionally dominated by large defense primes. Key topics include the Defense Innovation Unit's role in fostering collaboration between the military and tech firms, the implications of drone warfare on U.S. strategies, and the urgent need for modernizing military procurement practices. The conversation highlights the balance of innovation and risk in ensuring national security.

Brandon Tseng, former U.S. Navy SEAL and co-founder/CEO of Shield AI, builds autonomous drones and AI pilots for defense. He recounts shifting from SEAL missions to autonomy, designing small clearance drones like Nova, and breaking into defense funding. He explains Hivemind overcoming GPS jamming, scaling manufacturing, and why future forces will mix elite manned assets with swarms of affordable autonomous drones.

Brandon Tseng, Co-founder of Shield AI, discusses America's industrial base as a national security emergency. Topics include government efficiency in emergency response, the role of industrial innovation in national security, the need for proactive action in national security emergencies, challenges in the defense tech industry, and transitioning defense technologies to civilian use cases.