American technology firm Shield AI has revealed details of its V-BAT drone’s deployment and testing in Ukraine during 2024.
In a year-end summary, the company confirmed that its vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was used under real combat conditions to assess performance and resilience against Russian electronic warfare (EW).
The V-BAT drones were first delivered to Ukraine in June 2024, accompanied by Shield AI developers, to conduct field evaluations. The drones successfully completed missions despite challenging battlefield environments, including GPS and communication jamming.
“In Ukraine, V-BAT demonstrated resilience against electronic warfare, showcasing autonomy in the toughest conditions and completing the first successful long-endurance, long-duration ISR and targeting mission while GPS and comms were jammed,” the company stated.
Among its missions, the V-BAT played a critical role in identifying and targeting a Russian SA-11 Buk-M1 mobile air defense missile system. The target was subsequently destroyed by Ukrainian forces using HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems. This operation highlighted the drone’s capability in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) roles, as well as its effectiveness in supporting strike missions.
Shield AI has delivered approximately 250 V-BAT drones globally, manufacturing them at its Dallas, Texas facility. The V-BAT is used by a range of operators, including the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM), the U.S. Marine Corps, and the U.S. Coast Guard, which is expected to receive its first units in 2025.
The V-BAT has been deployed to replace older ISR platforms and establish new drone programs for various customers. Its vertical takeoff capability, combined with long-endurance flight performance and resilience to EW environments, positions it as a versatile solution for modern combat scenarios.
Shield AI’s deployment in Ukraine underscores the increasing reliance on advanced UAVs to counteract evolving threats and conduct precision missions. The company’s success with the V-BAT demonstrates how innovation in autonomous systems is reshaping warfare and bolstering operational capabilities on the front lines.
As global militaries continue to adopt UAVs for ISR and combat missions, the V-BAT’s performance in Ukraine serves as a testament to its utility and resilience in one of the most demanding conflict zones in the world.