Shield AI unveils new autonomous VTOL fighter jet concept
A render of the X-Bat. (Image: Shield AI)
Named X-Bat, the AI-controlled vertical take-off and landing drone is expected to enter production by 2029, with first flight tests estimated to take place a year earlier.
Shield AI has unveiled X-Bat, its AI-controlled, vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) platform. The long-range VTOL aircraft is intended for use across maritime and expeditionary missions, and could be operated as either an autonomous fighter jet or loyal wingman drone, according to the company.
“We’re executing a simple but ambitious master plan: prove the value of autonomy, scale it across domains and reimagine airpower,” said Brandon Tseng, Shield AI co-founder and president. “X-Bat represents the next part of that plan.”
According to the company, X-Bat can launch and recover from ships, remote locations or bases without
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Lockheed Martin emphasises self-funding efforts for “big bet” next-gen prototypes]()
Lockheed Martin emphasises self-funding efforts for “big bet” next-gen prototypes
A significant effort is now being made to focus on showcasing prototypes directly to demonstrate various capabilities to the US government.
-
![Ukraine and Sweden mark first major step towards potential Gripen E export deal]()
Ukraine and Sweden mark first major step towards potential Gripen E export deal
The letter of intent, signed on 22 October, is the first move in a “long road” towards Sweden strengthening the Ukrainian Air Force with up to 150 Gripen aircraft.
-
![How satcom is shaping the future of fast, accurate warfare (podcast)]()
How satcom is shaping the future of fast, accurate warfare (podcast)
"Speed is the key advantage and accuracy is the key outcome": Amazon Kuiper Government Solutions’ Rick Freeman talks to Shephard’s Georgia Lewis about how space-as-a-service is transforming defence connectivity and access to satellite capabilities.
-
![US Army order for CH-47F Block II aircraft takes total contracted to 18 in rapid fielding effort]()
US Army order for CH-47F Block II aircraft takes total contracted to 18 in rapid fielding effort
Boeing has delivered six Chinook CH-47F Block II production helicopters to the US Army, with the helicopters now undergoing a series of evaluations to demonstrate their enhanced capabilities. The company is working with the army on a path forward for Lot 6.
-
![Boeing’s T-7A poised to meet UK fast jet trainer requirements]()
Boeing’s T-7A poised to meet UK fast jet trainer requirements
The company is in active discussions with its supply chain to meet any potential near-term UK requirements as it gears up to replace the RAF’s ageing Hawk trainer aircraft.
