U.S. Navy funds $150 million Shield AI X‑BAT development

The U.S. Navy approved a $150 million modification to an existing Other Transaction agreement to continue development of Shield AI’s X‑BAT combat drone, part of the Defense Exportability Features programme, which already involves about 500 engineers from Shield AI and its suppliers. Recent milestones include starting up the GE Aerospace F110 engine, integrating its thrust‑vectoring nozzle, and completing aerodynamic testing of the weapons bays. The programme aims to move the X‑BAT from design and component testing to a flight‑capable aircraft, with a hub planned in Greece for industrial expansion.