Shield AI and AIDC deliver first V-BAT drone to Taiwan Coast Guard

Shield AI and its partner, Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC), have delivered the first V-BAT vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) reconnaissance drone to Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration (CGA). A total of 12 V-BAT units are expected to be delivered over the coming months.

The V-BAT is a Group 3 unmanned aerial system (UAS) featuring a ducted fan design and heavy fuel engine, providing over 12 hours of endurance. Designed to operate in high-intensity electronic warfare environments, the drone can land and take off from ship decks or rooftops without the need for runways, enhancing deployment flexibility and reducing operational costs.

The CGA will utilize these drones for maritime domain awareness (MDA), supporting surveillance, sea patrols, and law enforcement missions. To ensure long-term operational capability, Shield AI will provide training for CGA personnel and work with AIDC to establish a local support and maintenance system in Taiwan.