Shield AI, a leading defense technology company specializing in autonomous systems and next-generation unmanned aircraft, has announced the successful completion of Operational Test & Evaluation (OT&E) of its V-BAT 5.3 unmanned aircraft system (UAS) with the United States Coast Guard (USCG).
Conducted aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Midgett, the four-day series of flight tests saw the V-BAT 5.3 meet 100% of all Key Performance Parameters (KPPs) and Key System Attributes (KSAs). This milestone confirms the aircraft’s operational readiness and paves the way for full-scale deployment across U.S. maritime forces.
$198 Million ISR Contract Moves to Execution Phase
Following the successful OT&E, Shield AI’s V-BAT platform is set to enter service under a $198 million Indefinite-Delivery, Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) firm fixed-price contract awarded in June 2024. The contract supports the Coast Guard’s expanding Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations and emphasizes autonomous solutions for evolving maritime missions.
V-BAT Supports Coast Guard Force Design 2028
Shield AI’s President and Co-founder, Brandon Tseng, a former U.S. Navy SEAL, highlighted the strategic importance of the V-BAT’s performance during the evaluation.
“V-BAT’s role in the Coast Guard’s transformation under Force Design 2028 underscores how rapidly unmanned systems are reshaping maritime operations. 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.”
About V-BAT 5.3
The V-BAT 5.3 is a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) UAS designed for high-endurance ISR missions. Its compact footprint, runway independence, and autonomous flight capabilities make it ideal for deployment from ships, forward operating bases, and confined areas—enhancing tactical awareness and mission flexibility for operators worldwide.
