Former SpaceX engineer leads Shield AI’s X-BAT development

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Published: November 2, 2026

1 source

First reported by: FlightGlobal

Shield AIArmor HarrisSpaceXGE AerospaceHivemindFalcon 9X-BAT

In brief

Shield AI is developing the autonomous, vertically launching X-BAT, with Armor Harris drawing on SpaceX experience and the company targeting flight tests as early as late 2026.

Sources disagree

Factual claims where reporting sources diverge. Treat with care until confirmed by the primary investigator or regulator.

The planned timing and definition of the aircraft’s first tests.
ReutersThe AviationistFlightGlobal

Shield AI is developing X-BAT, an uncrewed jet aircraft designed to take off and land vertically from a mobile rail system. The concept is intended to operate without conventional runways, including from austere land sites and potentially ships. FlightGlobal’s profile of the program focuses on Armor Harris, Shield AI’s senior vice-president overseeing aircraft development, and how his experience with reusable rocket boosters informs the aircraft’s unusual launch and recovery concept.

X-BAT is a proposed military aircraft, not an operational platform. Shield AI has displayed a one-fifth-scale…

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