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
-
![US pledges to become “AI-first warfighting force” as navy hits new autonomy milestone]()
US pledges to become “AI-first warfighting force” as navy hits new autonomy milestone
A memo released on Monday outlines three key areas where the Pentagon can accelerate its adoption of artificial intelligence, including paths to finding new ways to integrate AI in combat, while the US Navy continues to push ahead with AI-enabled autonomy.
-
![Project Nightfall to test fire deep-strike capabilities for Ukraine by 2027]()
Project Nightfall to test fire deep-strike capabilities for Ukraine by 2027
The UK competition for industry to develop deep-strike capabilities for Ukraine in its war effort against Russia will also provide benefits for the country’s own long-range strike efforts.
-
![US Marines seek suppliers for 10,000 low-cost sUAS with first delivery targeted for April]()
US Marines seek suppliers for 10,000 low-cost sUAS with first delivery targeted for April
The US Marine Corps is looking for vendors capable of quickly delivering off-the-shelf drones. The small uncrewed aerial systems are expected to carry diverse types of payloads.
