The Indian Army has chosen Shield AI’s V-BAT unmanned aerial system, incorporating the company’s Hivemind artificial intelligence autonomy software, to strengthen its unmanned aerial and ISR capabilities. The procurement reflects India’s increasing focus on integrating autonomous systems into its defense modernization strategy.
Under the agreement, Hivemind will serve as the V-BAT’s AI-driven flight control system, allowing the drone to autonomously navigate, detect threats, and complete missions beyond line-of-sight and in complex operational environments. India will also receive access to a software development framework, enabling domestic partners to develop and test mission-specific autonomous applications while supporting local defense technology development.
The V-BAT VTOL drone uses a ducted-fan design, enabling vertical launch and recovery without runways, catapults, or recovery nets. Measuring approximately 2.7 meters in length with a 2.9-meter wingspan, the system has a maximum takeoff weight of 73 kilograms and is optimized for flexible deployment from land or maritime platforms.
Capable of carrying payloads of up to 18 kilograms, the V-BAT can conduct persistent ISR missions exceeding 13 hours, depending on configuration. Its open and modular architecture allows integration of multiple sensors, including EO/IR cameras, SAR payloads, and SATCOM links. The program aligns with Shield AI’s broader investment in India, highlighted by a Hyderabad manufacturing facility being developed with JSW Defence, supported by a long-term technology transfer agreement that enables domestic production and the creation of an indigenous supply chain.
