Raj Shah

Raj Shah is a distinguished leader defence innovation, seamlessly blending in his experience as a decorated U.S. Air Force F-16 pilot with multiple combat deployments and his expertise across technology, national security, cybersecurity, healthcare, and government communications. With a unique ability to bridge the gap between Silicon Valley's cutting-edge technologies and the strategic needs of national defence, Raj embodies resilience, hard work, and a commitment to skill development—values that have defined his career and underpin his inspiring presentations on thriving in high-pressure environments.

Raj’s tenure in government has had a transformative impact on the U.S. defence sector, particularly during his role as Managing Partner of the Pentagon's Defense Innovation Unit Experimental (DIUx). In this capacity, he played a pivotal role in modernising the U.S. Department of Defense by integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and state-of-the-art cybersecurity into military operations. His efforts were instrumental in forging partnerships that accelerated the adoption of innovative solutions, leaving a lasting legacy on how governments and organisations leverage technology to address global security challenges.

Raj has also excelled in the business realm. As co-founder of Morta Security, a trailblazing cybersecurity startup later acquired by Palo Alto Networks, he demonstrated his entrepreneurial acumen. At Palo Alto Networks, he served as Senior Director of Strategy, driving the company's innovation and growth. Currently, Raj applies his diverse expertise as Co-founder and Managing Partner of Shield Capital, where he focuses on advancing dual-use technologies for both commercial and defence applications. His work offers invaluable guidance to individuals and organisations navigating complex environments.

Raj Shah's thought leadership is captured in his keynote speeches and his book ‘Unit X: How the Pentagon and Silicon Valley Are Transforming the Future of War’. In these, he delves into the critical intersection of emerging technology, geopolitics, and national defence. A sought-after speaker, Raj addresses topics ranging from leadership and innovation to cybersecurity and global strategy. Drawing from a career marked by innovation and impact, he inspires audiences to embrace challenges, think strategically, and lead with purpose. His insights resonate deeply with those striving to understand and thrive in today's fast-evolving world.