Shield AI unveils X-BAT autonomous VTOL aircraft

Evidence notes
- The aircraft is designed around Shield AI’s Hivemind autonomy software rather than a conventional onboard pilot.
- Its VTOL configuration is intended to reduce dependence on runways and fixed launch infrastructure.
- Shield AI positioned X-BAT above V-BAT in size and mission scope within its autonomous-aircraft portfolio.
Company context
Shield AI builds autonomy software and unmanned aircraft systems for defence and allied operations. Its stack includes the Hivemind autonomy platform and aircraft such as V-BAT and X-BAT. The company focuses on autonomous mission execution in contested and degraded environments.