US-based Shield AI presents an updated version of V-BAT drone with extended range
The American company Shield AI presented an updated version of the V-BAT UAV - now the drone has a longer flight range and new functions in the absence of GPS and communication.
What is known
The updated V-BAT is equipped with a new aviation fuel engine that extends its flight time to over 13 hours. The drone is capable of performing vertical take-off and landing without operator assistance. It also has integrated SATCOM satellite communications for remote control. This makes it possible to use the drone for threat detection, border protection and maritime surveillance.
In addition, the V-BAT can be upgraded with SAR radar and electronic warfare capabilities in the future.
The V-BAT drone. Illustration: prnewswire
Brandon Tseng, president and co-founder of Shield AI, said that it is important to replace large and expensive reconnaissance UAVs with cheaper analogues that perform the same tasks.
It should be noted that this drone is actively used by the Ukrainian Defence Forces. For example, in February 2025, it became known that Shield AI was looking for partners among Ukrainian ammunition manufacturers to equip the drone with laser guidance systems. The company also has an office in Kyiv, where it trains drone operators and conducts research.
Source: PRN
