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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Shield AI Plans Newton, Kansas, Flight Test Operations

11/15/2025
Defense technology company Shield AI plans to establish operations in Newton, Kansas. The project is expected to create up to 60 jobs.

The company will lease approximately 16,000 square feet of space at the Newton City/County Airport for its new flight test facility.

“Shield AI is excited to partner with the Newton and Harvey County communities as we continue to advance autonomous aviation technologies,” said Armor Harris, senior vice president of aircraft at Shield AI “The region’s large aviation ecosystem, skilled workforce and strong public-private partnerships make south-central Kansas an ideal location for innovation.”

Shield AI develops AI-powered autonomous systems for military and security applications. The company’s flagship software, Hivemind, enables aircraft, drones, and other platforms to execute missions autonomously in complex environments.

“This investment by Shield AI highlights how the greater Wichita region continues to attract world-class aerospace and defense leaders,” noted Jeff Fluhr, President of the Greater Wichita Partnership. “Our region’s talent, infrastructure and collaborative ecosystem continue to strengthen our position as the Air Capital of the World, and as a hub for the next generation of flight.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Shield AI to Harvey County,” added Beth Shelton, Executive director of Harvey County Economic Development. “Their presence will create quality jobs, enhance our local economy and further position the Newton area as a strategic site for advanced aerospace technology.”

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