GE Aerospace has entered a strategic collaboration with Shield AI to develop the propulsion system for the groundbreaking X-BAT program. Announced on October 21st, the X-BAT is an AI-piloted vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) fighter jet engineered to operate in highly contested environments. Through a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the team has selected the battle-proven F110-GE-129 engine, enhanced with the Axisymmetric Vectoring Exhaust Nozzle (AVEN), to power this autonomous aircraft.
Amy Gowder, President and CEO of Defense & Systems at GE Aerospace, highlighted the partnership’s goal: “We’re pairing our proven experience in developing and scaling propulsion systems with Shield AI’s rapid vehicle development to move faster from concept to capability.” The collaboration focuses on integrating advanced propulsion into next-generation autonomous systems, a key priority for GE Aerospace.
Shield AI’s X-BAT is designed to deliver scalable, survivable combat mass. It operates using the company’s Hivemind autonomy software, functioning either independently or as a coordinated drone wingman. The choice of the F110 engine was deliberate. “The F110 is one of the most successful and reliable fighter engines in history and has the operability characteristics that X-BAT’s VTOL design demands,” said Armor Harris, Senior Vice President of Aircraft Engineering at Shield AI.
The F110 engine brings formidable credentials to the program, with over 11 million flight hours and the highest thrust in its class. Its AVEN technology is critical for the X-BAT’s mission profile, providing the thrust vectoring necessary for vertical flight and enhanced maneuverability during horizontal flight. GE Aerospace will provide comprehensive propulsion and testing support to accelerate the X-BAT’s development and readiness.
This partnership expands GE Aerospace’s portfolio as it focuses on advancing propulsion for the future of flight, meeting growing demand for reliable solutions in both manned and unmanned defense applications. The alliance aims to redefine how autonomous systems are powered and deployed, merging decades of propulsion expertise with cutting-edge artificial intelligence and aircraft design.
