Spear AI

Spear AI provides advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions tailored for the national security and maritime sectors. Founded in 2021 by U.S. Navy veterans Michael Hunter and John McGunnigle, the company bridges the gap between technology and operational reality for defense clients. Hunter, the CEO, is a former Navy intelligence analyst who supported SEAL Team Two, worked with the Defense Intelligence Agency, and managed projects for Project Maven. McGunnigle, the President and CTO, has over 30 years of U.S. Navy experience, including roles as a submarine Commanding Officer and Submarine Squadron Commodore.

The company develops AI-enabled software and hardware to enhance operator decision-making and situational awareness. Its product suite includes the Horizon AI Platform for managing and labeling acoustic data, Forerunner for edge AI data processing, and affordable, field-maintainable maritime sensors. Spear AI's technology is designed to interpret complex data, such as passive acoustics, to differentiate between environmental sounds and potential military threats like submarines. The business operates by selling its hardware and software products, and also offers consulting and technical services, including AI strategy, data pipeline design, and operational integration, a model similar to other defense tech firms. A key client is the U.S. Navy, which awarded Spear AI a $6 million contract for its data-labeling tool. The company has also secured $2.3 million in seed funding to expand its operations and product development.

Keywords: maritime AI, national security, artificial intelligence, machine learning, defense technology, edge computing, acoustic data analysis, maritime sensors, data management, situational awareness, naval technology, submarine detection, intelligence solutions, data labeling, government contractor, defense operations, autonomous systems, reinforcement learning, cloud architecture, underwater surveillance