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A new unmanned vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) fighter platform has been revealed, designed to operate from ships, islands, and austere locations while carrying out a variety of combat missions. The aircraft, named X-BAT, combines long-range capability with AI-enabled autonomy, enabling flexible operations in contested environments.
Powered by the company’s Hivemind autonomy software, the X-BAT can navigate and execute missions in communications-denied or degraded environments. The system allows the aircraft to operate independently, with a team of manned fighters, or coordinate with other autonomous platforms, offering significant operational flexibility.
The VTOL design allows the X-BAT to launch and land without traditional runways, while delivering a range exceeding 3,700 nautical kms with a full mission payload. This capability makes it suitable for expeditionary and maritime operations at a large scale, giving commanders persistent reach and reducing reliance on tanker support.
The aircraft is intended to be multirole, capable of strike, counter-air, electronic warfare, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. Its design allows up to three X-BATs to occupy the deck space of a single legacy fighter or helicopter, potentially increasing sortie generation and operational tempo.
According to Interesting Engineering, engineered for affordability and attritability, the X-BAT delivers fighter-class performance at a fraction of the acquisition and lifecycle cost of fifth-generation jets. Its efficient engine provides proven reliability, maintainability, and logistical maturity, supporting sustained operations in distributed and high-end conflict scenarios.
The combination of VTOL capability, long range, multirole flexibility, and autonomous operation positions the X-BAT as a purpose-built aircraft for modern combat environments. Its autonomy enables it to perform collaborative tactics, penetrate contested airspace, and function as a drone wingman or standalone asset without continuous human oversight.
By merging survivability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, the X-BAT offers a new approach to airpower, particularly in operations where traditional runways and manned platforms may be limited. The platform represents a step forward in autonomous combat aircraft, emphasizing persistence, responsiveness, and operational efficiency in complex battlespaces.
The official press release can be viewed here.
