Shield AI Unveils V-BAT UAV Platform at Indian Air Force Demonstration

Shield AI announced the V-BAT UAV platform on September 20, 2026. The company displayed the V-BAT at the Indian Air Force’s Dronathon 2026, an operational evaluation exercise held at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer. The V-BAT is a Group 3, fixed-wing, vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) UAV, capable of operating in confined spaces like ship decks. The platform offers an endurance of over 12 hours and a payload capacity of up to 18.1 kg.

The demonstration involved inquiries from senior IAF officials regarding the V-BAT’s potential applications. Furthermore, a strategic partnership agreement was inked between Shield AI and JSW Defence in 2024 to indigenize and manufacture the UAV in India. JSW has committed $90 million toward the associated business, including manufacturing and building a local supply chain.