Shield AI unveils an upgraded V-BAT drone with advanced autonomy, SATCOM, and a heavy-fuel engine, delivering unmatched ISR capabilities for global defense.
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| Shield AI's upgraded V-BAT brings unmatched ISR capabilities in a compact Group 3 drone, with heavy-fuel compatibility, VTOL, Hivemind AI, and SATCOM. Image: Shield AI |
WASHINGTON, USA — April 7, 2025:
Shield AI has officially unveiled the newest evolution of its V-BAT unmanned aerial system (UAS), delivering significant upgrades to an already battle-proven ISR platform. The latest iteration, announced today at the Navy League Sea-Air-Space Maritime Expo in Maryland, integrates cutting-edge autonomy software, expanded endurance, and mission versatility to meet the most complex operational demands.
The new V-BAT, equipped with Shield AI's Hivemind AI-pilot system, is designed to thrive in GPS- and communication-denied environments—enabling real-time targeting, persistent maritime surveillance, and rapid-response search-and-rescue operations. The drone now operates with a heavy-fuel engine optimized for JP-5, the most commonly used maritime aircraft fuel, which extends its endurance beyond 13 hours and ensures compatibility with naval and expeditionary forces.
"This version of the V-BAT is a leap ahead in mission effectiveness," said Brandon Tseng, President and Co-founder of Shield AI and a former Navy SEAL. "Militaries are increasingly replacing expensive, vulnerable ISR aircraft with smaller, more agile systems like the V-BAT that can go where others can’t—faster and cheaper."
One of the most notable improvements is the V-BAT's fully unassisted vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability. The aircraft requires no runways, catapults, or nets, and its patented ducted-fan design allows for safe operations on rooftops, confined urban environments, and even moving naval vessels in extreme weather.
Shield AI’s V-BAT has already seen broad deployment across the U.S. Navy fleet and all seven Marine Expeditionary Units. The U.S. Coast Guard recently selected it for a key ISR contract, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force adopted it as their first-ever ship-based ISR drone.
The upgraded system also supports SATCOM-enabled Beyond-Line-of-Sight (BLOS) command and control, enabling operators to manage missions from virtually anywhere. Its multi-payload configuration can host sensors like ViDAR, SAR, and electronic warfare tools, offering unmatched situational awareness in air, land, and sea operations.
Visitors to Shield AI’s booth (#1101) at the expo can see the U.S. Coast Guard V-BAT edition on display and explore the company’s expanding role in autonomous defense technologies shaping the future of warfare.