V-BAT is a long-endurance hybrid VTOL UAS with heavy-fuel engine, autonomous edge processing, modular payloads, and rapid ISR deployment.
V-BAT is a long-endurance hybrid VTOL UAS with heavy-fuel engine, autonomous edge processing, modular payloads, and rapid ISR deployment.
# Shield AI V-BAT – Long-Endurance Hybrid VTOL UAS for Persistent ISR
The V-BAT from Shield AI is a hybrid VTOL unmanned aerial system designed for persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Its heavy-fuel engine and runway-independent design allow fully unassisted vertical takeoff and landing, providing safe deployment in contested or austere environments.
Powered by Shield AI's Hivemind AI pilot software, V-BAT can operate in GPS- and communications-denied areas, enabling autonomous navigation, edge computing, and rapid decision-making in complex operational scenarios.
The platform supports a modular EO/IR gimbal compatible with multiple sensors, including ViDAR, providing flexibility for ISR, target acquisition, and situational awareness. Payloads can be rapidly swapped to meet evolving mission requirements.
With a maximum endurance of 12 hours and a range of 130 km, V-BAT combines vertical takeoff versatility with long-endurance fixed-wing flight. Its design enables rapid deployment from land, sea, or forward operating bases.
Designed for defense, maritime domain awareness, and border security missions, V-BAT ensures secure communications and resilient operations under harsh environmental and contested conditions.

Shield AI
Shield AI delivers AI-powered autonomy for drones and aircraft, ensuring reliable mission performance even in GPS- and comms-denied environments.