To strengthen its commitment, Shield AI has established an office in Kyiv, employing engineers, mission operations personnel, and technical specialists to support Ukrainian forces. The company is actively training USF operators to prepare them for front-line deployment of the V-BAT, which has demonstrated its resilience in GPS- and communications-denied conditions.
A senior commander from Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Training Group praised Shield AI’s efforts, highlighting the importance of the local presence in enhancing operational readiness. “The presence of Shield AI’s team in Ukraine is a critical step in enhancing our operational capabilities. Their efforts are ensuring that our forces are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the frontline environment,” the commander stated.
The V-BAT’s versatility has been showcased in various missions, including maritime operations in the Black Sea. It has successfully targeted Russian surface-to-air missile systems while withstanding advanced electronic warfare threats, emphasising its adaptability and reliability. Shield AI co-founder and President Brandon Tseng highlighted the system’s strategic value, criticising outdated legacy systems and underscoring the growing role of drones in modern warfare.
Ukraine’s USF, the world’s first dedicated military branch for unmanned systems, integrates aerial, ground-based, and marine drones to protect its citizens and territorial integrity. By leveraging advanced technologies and asymmetric warfare strategies, the USF conducts operations both on the battlefield and at strategic depths, targeting enemy assets hundreds of kilometres behind front lines.
