Shield AI enters fighter jet race with new VTOL “wingman” drone

With no runway required, The VTOL X-Bat is capable of launching and recovering from ships, remote islands, or forward bases while eliminating dependency on traditional infrastructure.

“X-Bat's ability to autonomously operate standalone or collaboratively allows it to project power,” said Armor Harris, Senior Vice President of aircraft at Shield AI.

Shield AI is the latest company to build so-called “loyal wingman” drones for the military, joining Anduril, General Atomics and Kratos. The X-Bat announcement comes as the air force and navy have launched programs to acquire large drones that can fly autonomously alongside fighter jets, known as collaborative combat aircraft, or CCA.