US Navy bets another $150M on Shield AI's runway-free X-BAT drone

Shield AI says US government funding plus its own investment commitments for the autonomous X-BAT VTOL fighter drone have reached $400 million, including a new $150 million from the US Navy matched by the company. Flight testing is planned for later this year, with mission capability targeted for 2028.

• US Navy added $150 million, matched by $150 million from Shield AI
• Total funding for the X-BAT program has reached $400 million
• The drone claims a range over 2,000 nautical miles and supersonic flight
• Flight testing is due later this year, mission capability in 2028