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Shield AI’s V-BAT 5.3 unmanned aircraft system has successfully completed operational test and evaluation with the US Coast Guard, according to the defence tech company.
The V-BAT passed the operational test by scoring 100 per cent on all key performance parameters and key system attributes aboard Coast Guard Cutter Midgett over the course of four days of flight tests, according to the company.
The achievement also reportedly clears the way for full deployment under a $198 million indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity firm fixed-price contract awarded in June 2024 to deliver intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance services using the V-BAT platform.
The V-BAT uses an operationally deployed single-engine, ducted-fan vertical take-off and landing, and is capable of launching and recovering without personnel.
“V-BAT’s role in the Coast Guard’s transformation under Force Design 2028 underscores how rapidly unmanned systems are reshaping maritime operations,” said Brandon Tseng, Shield AI president, co-founder and former Navy SEAL.
“Passing this OT&E on time and on target is an important milestone, but it’s just the beginning. Our focus now turns to expanding the V-BAT capability within the Coast Guard to deliver outcomes every day at unprecedented scale.”
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