GE Aerospace and Shield AI Formed Partnership for X-BAT

GE Aerospace (NYSE: GE) has entered into an agreement with Shield AI to collaborate on propulsion technologies for Shield AI's new X-BAT vehicle program. As part of this collaboration, the F110-GE-129 engine was selected to power the X-BAT with the advanced Axisymmetric Vectoring Exhaust Nozzle (AVEN). GE Aerospace will provide propulsion and testing support for the X-BAT program.

GE Aerospace Defense and Systems President and CEO Amy Gowder stated, "We are excited to combine GE Aerospace's proven experience in developing and scaling propulsion systems with Shield AI's vehicle development capabilities to move faster from concept to capability. Together, we are helping redefine advanced propulsion technologies integrated into autonomous systems built for mission success. Collaborating with Shield AI reinforces GE Aerospace's commitment to advancing propulsion for next-generation autonomous systems."

X-BAT was unveiled on October 21 in Washington D.C. and is an AI-piloted vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) combat aircraft engineered by Shield AI to operate in competitive and challenging environments. Powered by Shield AI's proven Hivemind autonomy software, the X-BAT offers scalable, survivable combat capability in tough environments and can operate independently or as a drone wingman. Armor Harris, Senior Vice President of Aircraft Engineering at Shield AI, remarked, "The GE Aerospace F110 engine is one of the most successful and reliable fighter engines in history and possesses the operational characteristics required by the X-BAT's VTOL design. GE Aerospace is a fantastic partner, and we are excited to see the potential of our combined teams."

By combining GE Aerospace's expertise in propulsion development, testing, and certification with Shield AI's proven autonomous aircraft technology, this partnership will accelerate the development of future unmanned applications.

GE Aerospace's F110 engine is one of the most powerful engines with over 11 million flight hours and has celebrated 40 years of continuous production and improvement. The Axisymmetric Vectoring Exhaust Nozzle (AVEN) designed for the X-BAT provides thrust vectoring capability for vertical flight and enhances maneuverability in horizontal flight.

This announcement strengthens GE Aerospace's growing portfolio of partnerships aligned with its commitment to advancing future flight and propulsion support technologies. As the demand for affordable and reliable propulsion solutions in both unmanned and manned defense applications increases, GE Aerospace continues to focus on shaping the future of flight while meeting today's mission needs.