Runway-Free Fighter Jet X-BAT Reaches Engine Testing Milestone!

Shield AI and GE Aerospace have achieved a significant milestone with the X-BAT, a vertical takeoff jet that requires no runway. They successfully conducted engine light-off testing using a refurbished Axisymmetric Vectoring Exhaust Nozzle. Designed for modern warfare, the X-BAT boasts impressive specs, including vertical flight capabilities and combat radius of 1,000 nautical miles. Flight testing is set to begin later this year, raising discussions on the future of autonomous weapons.