# Coast Guard Awards Shield AI V-BAT Contract

The U.S. Coast Guard awarded Shield AI a reported $198 million contract for V-BAT uncrewed aircraft, including delivery, installation, and pilot and mission training for maritime intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. The same report says Shield AI appointed former Parsons CFO Matt Ofilos as its CFO amid business growth and portfolio expansion. The award is a market signal for contractors serving maritime ISR and uncrewed aircraft programs, but the signal provides no new solicitation or procurement contact details.

- The contract bundles aircraft delivery with installation and training, indicating that support and workforce-readiness capabilities are part of the reported scope.
- Defense contractors and suppliers in maritime ISR can use the award as an indicator of government demand for uncrewed aircraft capabilities; the signal does not identify an open bid opportunity.
- Shield AI’s reported leadership and corporate expansion provide context for its capacity as an awardee, but the signal does not specify changes to the contract or future procurement plans.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Published:** November 11, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)

### Vendors
- Shield AI (awardee)

### Key Quotes
> Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to help deliver the technology and capabilities our national security enterprise requires. I’m excited to join Gary and Shield’s mission-focused team as we accelerate our growth to meet global demand.
> — Matt Ofilos, CFO of Shield AI

> I look forward to his leadership as we continue to build a generation-defining defense technology company.
> — Gary Steele, CEO of Shield AI

### Sources
- [Shield Hires Ex-Parsons Executive Matt Ofilos CFO](https://www.govconwire.com/articles/shield-matt-ofilos-cfo-appointment) - GovCon Wire