The X-BAT combat drone, developed by Shield AI, is expected to begin its first flight tests with vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) in the state of Kansas, near the city of Newton, this year.
The ability to operate without conventional runways is identified as the project’s main differentiator and will be the central focus of initial evaluations.
According to Armor Harris, executive responsible for the company’s aircraft division and considered the creator of the X-BAT, the practical tests will prioritize the validation of takeoff and vertical recovery. The statement was made during the AFA Warfare Symposium, held in Denver, where the company detailed its next steps.
The project is considered highly ambitious within the high-performance aerial combat drone segment. The proposal combines stealth, large range of action, relevant load capacity and competitive cost for the United States Department of Defense. Bringing all these features together on a single platform already represents a significant challenge — making it capable of operating vertically from virtually any location further increases the degree of complexity.
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If it achieves promised performance, the X-BAT could redefine the flexibility and survivability of unmanned tactical air operations. However, experts and competitors observe the program with caution, questioning whether the company will be able to meet the established technical goals. The next flight tests will be decisive in proving the viability of the concept.
Source: The War Zone | Photo: @shieldaitech | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
“A peer adversary doesn’t have to beat our pilots. They just have to keep them on the ground by cratering runways and annihilating fuel farms. No tankers? No runway? No problem. X-BAT doesn’t need them.”
J.J. Cummings, our Senior Director of Strategic Engagement for Navy… pic.twitter.com/gDAydvTH6o
— Shield AI (@shieldaitech) January 6, 2026
