Skydio And LightRidge Kick Off 2026 Listings As Defence AI Taps Public Markets
U.S. drone maker Skydio and space-intelligence contractor LightRidge have moved ahead with IPO plans in recent weeks, signaling a re-opening for defence AI listings. Shield AI and Europe’s Helsing are also preparing for potential 2026 debuts, according to industry reports, as investors warm to dual-use autonomy and ISR software.
Executive Summary
- Skydio confidentially filed for a U.S. IPO in December, targeting a 2026 debut as demand for autonomous defence drones accelerates, according to Reuters.
- LightRidge Solutions publicly filed for a U.S. For more on [related smart farming developments](/ag-giants-slash-input-bills-deere-cnh-and-agco-push-spot-spraying-drones-and-satellite-bundles-to-cut-farm-costs-03-01-2026). IPO in late December, positioning its AI-enabled ISR and space systems business for public markets, per SEC documents.
- Shield AI has begun IPO preparations for 2026, while Germany’s Helsing is exploring a Frankfurt listing, Bloomberg and FT report.
- Analysts expect defence AI revenue to expand as NATO and Indo-Pacific budgets prioritize autonomy, ISR and electronic warfare, driving investor appetite for dual-use firms.
IPO Filings Gather Pace As Autonomy Moves Front-Line
U.S. autonomous drone maker Skydio confidentially filed for an initial public offering in December, positioning itself for a 2026 listing as the Pentagon and allied ministries scale procurement of AI-enabled small unmanned systems, Reuters reported in mid-December. Skydio’s defence footprint—anchored by the U.S. Army Short Range Reconnaissance program and expanding counter-UAS and ISR roles—has grown alongside its commercial inspection business, giving investors a dual-use revenue story that public market buyers increasingly favor.
In a parallel move, LightRidge Solutions filed its S‑1 registration in late December, detailing an AI-driven stack that fuses space and airborne sensors to deliver real-time intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) to defense and national security customers. The filing outlines plans to use IPO proceeds for R&D, debt reduction and selective M&A, according to its SEC registration statement. Private equity owner AE Industrial Partners retains a majority stake pre-IPO; the float is designed to broaden the shareholder base and provide currency for growth, according to the filing.
Pipeline Builds: Shield AI And Helsing Line Up 2026 Options
San Diego-based autonomy company Shield AI, creator of the Hivemind autonomy stack for teams of aircraft, is preparing for a 2026 IPO after years of rapid growth in U.S. and allied programs, Bloomberg has reported...