[Korea News Vision] Shield AI "Contract with KAI, not related to KF-21…compliance with all legal procedures" officially refuted

Shield AI, a U.S. autonomous aviation technology company, refuted allegations of military technology links related to the "Shield AI-Korea Aerospace (KAI) contract" recently raised in some Korean media reports, saying that the contract was signed through legal procedures under the laws of the two countries.

The official announcement came amid some criticism that the contract could be a 'pathway for the technology leakage of domestic fighter jets'. Some domestic media have sparked controversy by mentioning speculation that Shield AI's contract partner is KAI and that the company's 'autonomous unmanned control system' technology may be connected to Korea's industrial defense technology.

In response, Shield AI countered in a press release on the 19th, "The contract with KAI was a completely independent private company agreement, and there was no discussion or technology sharing related to KF-21." He added, "The contract was made under the non-disclosure clause, and after several working-level consultations between the two companies, it was concluded after the review of KAI's legal and procurement division."

Regarding the relationship with startup Quontam Aero (Chairman Chung Dong-geun), which was selected as a partner in Korea, Shield AI also explained, "We are exclusive official partners, and these visions and dedication met Shield AI standards." He also said, "We place importance on strategic passion and will in addition to technology when selecting partners to design the future of autonomous aviation technology together."

In particular, Shield AI expressed concern over some views on 'uncertain contracts' and 'technology transfer passages'. "As a defense-related technology company, all procedures are in accordance with laws and regulations of both the U.S. and Korea," he stressed, "We have gone through the contract and legal review procedures."

Shield AI said about its technology, "We believe that it can actually contribute to the development of Korea's defense industry, an ally," and "We hope to expand cooperation with Korean defense companies including KAI in the future."

Meanwhile, Shield AI is cooperating with various global institutions, including California-based free-flight technology leaders and the U.S. Ministry of National Defense. In particular, the X-62 VISTA, which remodeled F-16 fighter jets, is equipped with its own 'Hivemind' autonomous pilot system to successfully fly unmanned flights.

Seoul = Reporter Lee Chang-woo_ cwlee@nvp.co.kr