Shield AI to unveil full-scale X-BAT VTOL drone by end of October

Shield AI expects its first full-scale X-BAT unmanned combat aircraft by the end of October 2026, with flight tests later this year. The US Navy added $150 million to its initial $50 million, bringing total external funding to $200 million.

• X-BAT targets a 2,000-nautical-mile range and 50,000-foot ceiling
• Projected combat radius of 1,000–1,340 nautical miles, about twice the F-35's
• Navy funding is milestone-based, with Shield AI matching the $150 million
• A fully equipped flight-test aircraft is expected in 2028