The Ukrainian Armed Forces are effectively utilizing American experimental drones, V-BAT.

The Armed Forces of Ukraine have successfully begun utilizing the American MQ-35A V-BAT drone manufactured by Shield AI during combat operations.

This was reported by Ukrainian military personnel along with the publication of images of the drone in use. These images were later provided by the manufacturer, Shield AI, showcasing the V-BAT in action.

The V-BAT drone recently completed its first autonomous reconnaissance mission on the Ukrainian frontlines, demonstrating its resilience in challenging conditions. According to Shield AI, the drone successfully conducted its initial intelligence-gathering operation while withstanding the effects of Russian electronic warfare (EW) systems.

Weighing 56.5 kg and with a payload capacity of up to 11 kg, the V-BAT is equipped with advanced optics and an MWIR thermal sensor. The drone also utilizes artificial intelligence for target detection and recognition. Its unique vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability allows it to be operated from a compact 4×4 meter landing platform, enhancing its versatility on the battlefield.

In 2023, Shield AI announced new functionality for the V-BAT to manage swarms of drones, further expanding its operational capabilities.

Moreover, in 2024, the company signed an agreement with JSW Defence and Aerospace for the production of V-BAT drones in India.

The U.S. Navy has also conducted tests with the V-BAT for deployment from aircraft carriers, demonstrating the drone's adaptability for use on various maritime platforms.

In a statement regarding the global impact of the V-BAT, Shield AI emphasized its role in enhancing military operations, including successful missions in GPS-denied and communication-challenged environments.

As of now, the drone has been used over 23 times, proving its effectiveness for international partners involved in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).

Previously, it was reported that American experimental V-BAT drones were deployed in Ukraine for covert testing by the Armed Forces in real combat conditions. These tests aimed to assess the effectiveness of the drones against Russian electronic warfare systems.

According to Brandon Tseng, the head of the American company Shield AI, the V-BAT drones were sent to Ukraine in June 2024, with American developers monitoring the initial tests.