GE Aerospace and Shield AI achieve engine test milestone for X-BAT aircraft

GE Aerospace and Shield AI have completed initial engine light-off and vectoring nozzle integration tests for the X-BAT vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned combat aircraft.

The testing phase involved integrating the Axisymmetric Vectoring Exhaust Nozzle onto the platform, followed by mechanism evaluations and successful engine ignition. Developed for Shield AI's X-BAT program in collaboration with GE Aerospace, the specialized nozzle mechanism is designed to direct engine thrust, paving the way for the autonomous aircraft to achieve controlled vertical flight capabilities.

The successful engine test marks a critical step forward in the development of the experimental platform as engineering teams prepare for full vertical flight operations.

Sources: Defence Turk.