Japan picks Shield AI’s V-BAT as its first maritime ISR platform

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) has selected V-BAT unmanned aircraft system (UAS), developed by San Diego-based Shield AI, as the country’s first-ever maritime-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) platform. 

As informed, this “milestone” deal represents the beginning of a planned multi-year stream of increasing V-BAT orders to support JMSDF operations. Under the agreement, the JMSDF will acquire multiple V-BAT UAS from Shield AI, to enhance the surveillance and intelligence-gathering capabilities of its surface vessels. 

With its unique ducted fan design and the ability to launch and recover in confined spaces, it is “ideally suited for shipborne and austere environments”, according to the company.

The system will provide advanced ISR capabilities to JMSDF surface vessels, “reinforcing Japan’s defense posture and operational readiness in the Indo-Pacific region”. 

“Japan is a vital ally in the Indo-Pacific and critical to regional deterrence efforts, and this partnership strengthens Japan’s ability to respond effectively to crises and ensures they are equipped with a reliable and proven platform for maritime ISR missions,” said Brandon Tseng, Shield AI’s President, Co-founder, and former Navy SEAL.

“The JMSDF’s selection of V-BAT reflects their understanding of the future of warfare—where operational success requires blending high-cost assets with intelligent, affordable unmanned systems like V-BAT. Every U.S. and allied maritime vessel should be equipped with V-BAT to provide shipborne ISR capabilities wherever and whenever they are needed, and it’s fantastic to be making that vision a reality with JMSDF.” 

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company founded in 2015. The company is building the AI pilot, Hivemind, which has flown jets (F-16; MQM-178 Firejet), a vertical takeoff and landing drone (MQ-35 V-BAT), and three quadcopters (Nova, Nova 2, iPRD).