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Shield unveils first X-BAT combat drone prototype with test flight planned for 2026
Shield has unveiled the first prototype of its X-BAT, an uncrewed combat jet designed to take off and land vertically without a runway.
Shield unveils the first prototype of its X-BAT, an uncrewed combat jet capable of vertical takeoff and landing without a runway, according to the Defence Industry Europe report. The development marks Shield’s introduction of a new unmanned aerial platform with VTOL capability.
The announcement confirms the existence of a first X-BAT prototype and outlines the project as part of Shield’s combat drone program. Details on the aircraft’s specifications, payloads, or performance were not provided in the material.
A test flight window is referenced with planned activity in 2026, indicating the program’s next milestone as a flight demonstration within that year. No further timing specifics or locations for the testing are included in the material.
The report categorizes the news as breaking and identifies Shield as the company behind the concept. No additional context about potential operators, partners, or deployment scenarios is included in the supplied material.