Shield AI Proposes Polish Participation in X-BAT Fighter Jet Program
WARSAW, Poland — Shield AI, a defense technology firm based in California, has extended an invitation to Poland to participate in the production of the X-BAT, an autonomous vertical-takeoff combat aircraft. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk highlighted this development during a press conference in Warsaw on June 16.
“Shield AI plans to collaborate with Poland on the X-BAT program, which is notable for being the first autonomous combat aircraft of its kind globally,” stated Tusk. He described the initiative as “a top-tier technological advancement, offering potential air superiority in military conflicts and representing a significant leap in terms of technological innovation and ambition.”
Shield AI introduced the X-BAT to the public in October 2025, touting it as an AI-powered unmanned fighter jet capable of vertical takeoffs and landings. The aircraft is designed to operate effectively in expeditionary and maritime scenarios, especially in contested areas.
The core technology of the X-BAT includes Shield AI’s proprietary software, Hivemind, which furnishes the drone with AI-driven autonomy. This software is engineered to navigate drones in environments where communication is compromised, degraded, or limited. “Hivemind equips the X-BAT to autonomously enter contested battle zones, synergize with manned aircraft, and perform coordinated tactical maneuvers without needing constant communication links,” according to a company statement. This level of autonomy allows the X-BAT to either complement manned aircraft as a drone wingman or operate independently.
The announcement from Shield AI comes at a crucial time as the Polish government deliberates the acquisition of up to 32 new fighter jets. Some of the options under consideration include Lockheed Martin’s F-35, the Eurofighter Typhoon by a consortium of Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, and Boeing’s F-15EX.
In addition to these considerations, Warsaw is exploring the possibility of joining the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) to further develop a sixth-generation fighter jet. This international effort is led by Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Konrad Gołota, Polish Deputy State Assets Minister, indicated that involvement in this tri-nation initiative could enhance the capabilities and innovative potential of Poland’s predominantly state-controlled defense industry.
Established in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed company specializing in defense technology. Besides the X-BAT and its associated Hivemind software, the company also produces the V-BAT drone, amongst other products.
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Jamal Peterson reports on defense, aerospace, and tech policy. With a military background and a strategic mind, he dissects complex subjects with clarity, offering readers sharp, reliable insights.
