Shield AI, a leading U.S. defense technology startup, has officially introduced the X-BAT, an artificial intelligence-powered fighter jet designed for fully autonomous missions. The aircraft operates under the company’s Hivemind AI system, which enables flight and combat operations without relying on GPS or human pilots.
According to Shield AI, the X-BAT will begin flight tests in 2026, with operational readiness expected by 2028. The jet boasts a range of over 2,000 nautical miles, making it suitable for long-range missions and advanced combat scenarios.
A key feature of the aircraft is its vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability, allowing deployment in remote or infrastructure-limited environments. Shield AI co-founder and president Ryan Tseng emphasized that this feature enables global operational flexibility:
“X-BAT can be launched virtually anywhere, providing next-generation mobility for combat missions.”
The company estimates development costs at around $1 billion, marking it as Shield AI’s second major product following the V-BAT drone. The startup, valued at $5.3 billion, has become one of the most prominent players in the U.S. defense tech sector.
Although no formal supply contracts have been announced, Shield AI is in ongoing talks with defense partners and government agencies. Like other AI-defense startups, the company is investing heavily in next-gen systems without guaranteed procurement commitments.
Powered by Hivemind, the X-BAT can operate as an autonomous fighter or in coordination with manned aircraft as a loyal wingman. The project is part of a broader U.S. initiative to integrate autonomous systems into allied military forces.
Recently, the U.S. Army awarded TurbineOne a $100 million contract to deploy AI-driven combat tools across devices such as drones, laptops, and mobile units, supporting battlefield awareness even without connectivity.
Earlier this year, OpenAI reportedly received $200 million to develop AI solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense — further highlighting the growing intersection of AI innovation and national defense.
