Under the agreement, Shield AI will supply multiple V-BAT systems to enhance the JMSDF’s surface vessels with advanced ISR capabilities. The deal is part of a long-term plan involving increasing orders to bolster the JMSDF’s ability to conduct intelligence and surveillance missions effectively.
Brandon Tseng, Shield AI’s President and Co-founder, emphasised the importance of the partnership, stating, “Japan is a vital ally in the Indo-Pacific and critical to regional deterrence efforts. The JMSDF’s selection of V-BAT reflects their understanding of the future of warfare, where success relies on integrating intelligent, affordable unmanned systems like V-BAT.”
The V-BAT stands out as the only single-engine ducted-fan vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) UAS globally deployed in various operational environments. Its unique design allows it to launch and recover in confined spaces, making it particularly suitable for shipborne operations and austere environments.
With proven resilience in contested regions such as Ukraine, the Black Sea, and the Indo-Pacific, the V-BAT demonstrates its ability to operate effectively even in GPS- and communication-denied environments. It remains reliable in the face of advanced electronic warfare threats that have incapacitated traditional drones.
Delivering the capabilities of more expensive aircraft, the V-BAT excels in diverse mission profiles, including ISR, strategic targeting, search-and-rescue, and maritime interdiction. Shield AI’s state-of-the-art technology positions the V-BAT as a vital asset for modern defence strategies, ensuring flexibility and effectiveness in complex operational scenarios.