American defense technology company Shield AIThe world’s first autonomous fighter jet capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) X-Bathas been released.
Shield AIAccording to X-Batoperates without a human pilot and aims to lead a network of unmanned systems. The aircraft combines fully autonomous operation, VTOL capabilities, and long-range attack capabilities in one platform.

“Brandon Tseng “Never before has AI piloting and vertical takeoff, launch and landing capabilities been combined in a state-of-the-art aircraft,” said Shield AI Chairman and Co-Founder.
Shield AIIt said the aircraft could take off and land from ships, remote islands and temporary forward bases and would not have to rely on existing runways or air base infrastructure. “This is the future of air power.”
Shield AIIs X-BatIt is said to be capable of performing air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, and is also equipped with electronic warfare equipment. The aircraft has a wingspan of 11.8 m, a maximum range of more than 3,000 nautical miles, and an operating altitude of more than 15,000 m.
The company emphasized that the jet can maneuver over 4G and is compactly designed with dimensions of 12.2m x 4.2m x 1.8m, making it suitable for expeditionary missions.

This platform can be equipped with missiles and is V-Bat Unlike drones and previous aircraft, which were primarily used for surveillance and reconnaissance, they were designed for combat operations.
X-BatIs Shield AI Unique AI software HivemindIt is equipped with , and has already proven its ability to autonomously fly complex aircraft such as the F-16.
This software allows the aircraft to make decisions and operate independently even in environments where GPS or communications are blocked.
X-BatIts cost-effectiveness was also emphasized, and at approximately $27 million per aircraft, it is much cheaper than existing manned fighters such as the F-35 (more than $100 million per aircraft).
This will allow the Pentagon and its allies to deploy more aircraft to conflict zones without increasing pilot risk.
Shield AIIs X-Bat They say its introduction could redefine how the U.S. military and its allies project power. It is especially effective in areas where existing bases are vulnerable or unavailable.
“Ryan Tseng “We believe we can save military lives by reducing the risks that put people at risk,” added Shield AI Co-Founder and CEO.

Photos and video: Shield AI / YouTube @Shield_AI. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
