Shield AI says bombs on V-BAT are a misconception

Shield AI’s V-BAT is best known for its AI-powered software and vertical takeoff capability. The drone has been used for reconnaissance in Ukraine, flying more than 200 missions in 2025, and the company is exploring ways to mount weapons, including a partnership with South Korean arms maker LIG Nex1 to equip it with six-pound guided missiles.

Brandon Tseng, Shield AI’s cofounder and president and a former Navy SEAL, said a common misconception is that the V-BAT needs to be armed. "Who doesn't ask for that? The US military doesn't ask for that because we understand joint fires. The Ukrainians don't ask for it anymore, either," he said, arguing experienced militaries prefer to link the drone’s intelligence to other strike assets.

Tseng likened the V-BAT to a mini Predator or Reaper: its primary mission is finding targets, and that requires long on-station time. The drone is designed to fly for more than 13 hours, be easily deployable by a two-person launch crew, and operate without a runway.

Ukraine

shield ai, v-bat, drone, ai software, vertical takeoff, reconnaissance, ukraine, lig nex1, guided missiles, brandon tseng