Shield AI’s V-BAT 5.3 Passes Operational Evaluation with U.S. Coast Guard
Shield AI’s latest V-BAT 5.3 unmanned aircraft system (UAS) has successfully completed its Operational Test & Evaluation (OT&E) with the U.S. Coast Guard. The system achieved a perfect score, meeting 100% of all Key Performance Parameters and Key System Attributes during four days of flight tests aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Midgett.
This achievement clears the path for full deployment under a $198 million indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract awarded in June 2024. The contract covers Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) services using the V-BAT platform.
About the V-BAT System
The V-BAT is a single-engine, ducted-fan, vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) UAS. It can launch and recover without the need for personnel, making it a practical asset for maritime operations. Trusted by U.S. and international forces, the platform supports missions across Group 1 to Group 5 categories and beyond.
Operational Impact
V-BAT’s success is a key element in the Coast Guard’s Force Design 2028 transformation plan, highlighting how unmanned systems are changing maritime missions. With this OT&E milestone met, the focus shifts to expanding V-BAT’s capabilities within the Coast Guard to provide consistent, scalable operational outcomes.
- Completed OT&E with a 100% score on all performance metrics
- Supports Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions
- Operates without personnel for launch and recovery
- Part of a $198 million contract for full deployment
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