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Ukrainian Forces Successfully Integrate American V-BAT Drones

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Ivan Khomenko
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Ukrainian Forces Successfully Integrate American V-BAT Drones
V-BAT in Ukraine (Source: Shield AI)

The Ukrainian Armed Forces have successfully integrated the American MQ-35A V-BAT drone, manufactured by Shield AI, into their operations.

The announcement was made alongside the release of the first images of the drone in use by Ukrainian soldiers. These images were provided by the manufacturer, Shield AI, showcasing the V-BAT in action.

The V-BAT drone recently completed its first autonomous reconnaissance mission on the Ukrainian frontlines, demonstrating its resilience in challenging conditions. According to Shield AI, the drone successfully carried out its first intelligence-gathering operation while withstanding electronic warfare tactics.

V-BAT in Ukraine (Source: Shield AI)
V-BAT in Ukraine (Source: Shield AI)

Weighing 56.5 kg, with up to 11 kg dedicated to payload capacity, the V-BAT is equipped with advanced optics and a MWIR thermal imaging sensor. The drone also uses artificial intelligence for target detection and recognition. Its unique vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability allows it to operate from a small 4×4-meter landing platform, enhancing its versatility on the battlefield.

In 2023, Shield AI announced the V-BAT’s new functionality for controlling swarms of drones, further expanding its operational capabilities. In addition, the company signed a deal with JSW Defense and Aerospace in 2024 for the production of V-BAT drones in India.

The US Navy has also conducted trials with the V-BAT for deployment from aircraft carriers, showcasing the drone’s adaptability for use on various naval platforms.

In a statement reflecting on the V-BAT’s global impact, Shield AI emphasized its role in enhancing military operations, including successful missions in GPS and communications-denied environments. The drone has now been deployed over 23 times, proving its effectiveness for international partners engaged in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations.

Earlier, US experimental V-BAT drones were reportedly deployed in Ukraine for secret testing by the Ukrainian Armed Forces under real combat conditions. These trials were aimed at evaluating the drones' performance against Russian electronic warfare systems. According to Brandon Tseng, head of US-based Shield AI, the V-BAT drones were sent to Ukraine in June, 2024, with American developers overseeing the initial testing.

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