City approves lease allowing Shield AI to base larger aircraft testing at Newton Airport

The Newton City Commission on a voice vote approved two lease agreements and a brokerage agreement that will allow Shield AI to base aircraft and testing operations at Newton Airport.

The agreements cover a portion of Hangar J (about 10,000 square feet of hangar with roughly 6,000 square feet of office space) and approximately three acres of airport land described in the lease documents. The brokerage agreement formalizes a previously negotiated arrangement with Hughes Merino to assist in securing the lease.

Jacob Miller, representing Shield AI, told the commission the company develops artificial-intelligence systems that can be installed on a range of aircraft. Miller said the technology has been tested on smaller systems such as the Nova and on other platforms, and Shield AI is moving into a larger, “group 5” collaborative aircraft program that requires expanded local flight- and engine-testing space. He said the company conducted a rapid site visit to Newton and chose the airport as an advantageous location for testing and development.

Staff emphasized that the leases are written at fair-market value and that following FAA guidance on airport leasing will help the city maintain federal compliance. The agreements were described as time-sensitive; staff and economic development partners expedited review to finalize terms.

City staff projected 30 to 60 initial jobs tied to Shield AI’s operations in Newton and said the roles would include software developers, engineers and pilots with experience in heavy jets, although specific salary ranges were not provided during the meeting.

The commission approved the lease and brokerage agreement by voice vote and welcomed Shield AI to Newton.