The story
Shield AI's V-BAT takes off and lands balanced vertically on a single ducted fan, then tips over and flies like a plane. No runway, no launcher, no net — it fits in a pickup truck and sets itself up in minutes.
The V-BAT can fly missions with no GPS and no radio link — its onboard AI pilot navigates by looking at the ground below.
Quick answers
How do you identify a V-BAT?
Looks like a flying propane tank with wings: fat cylindrical body, long thin wings, ducted fan at the tail. If it's hovering nose-up, you're watching a launch or recovery.
What does a V-BAT sound like?
A small-engine buzz from the ducted fan, louder than you would expect for something this small.
How fast is the V-BAT?
Top speed is 90 kts.
How big is the V-BAT?
It is 9 ft 7 in across the wings.
When did the V-BAT first fly?
Its first flight was in 2016.
How many V-BATs have been built?
Unknown built.
How rare is a V-BAT in Bogey?
RARE. A good day. Most spotters go weeks between sightings of something this rare. Your first V-BAT catch is worth 250 points.
