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Drones & Robotics

X-BAT

AI-piloted VTOL fighter jet that needs no runway.

Unveiled in 2025, X-BAT is Shield AI's autonomous vertical-takeoff fighter jet, flown by its Hivemind AI pilot. It is pitched as a lower-cost 'loyal wingman' with long range and no runway requirement, with flight testing planned for later in the decade.

What it does

  • Vertical takeoff/landing
  • AI piloting (Hivemind)
  • Autonomous strike/ISR
  • Runway-independent

Where it's deployed

  • Announced 2025; testing planned

Agencies using it

DoD

Sources

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