Ukraine has begun using V-BAT reconnaissance drones developed by US company Shield AI, which are capable of vertical takeoff and landing. A company spokesperson told The Wall Street Journal that the drones are helping Ukraine conduct reconnaissance operations, arguing that the V-BATs have proven themselves to be resistant to electronic warfare, an important advantage in modern combat.

According to the developer, V-BAT drones are launched at a distance of about 40 kilometers from the front line and can track targets at a distance of more than 100 kilometers, despite the active use of electronic countermeasures (EW). The developers claim that V-BAT demonstrated high adaptability to difficult conditions and resistance to interference, which allowed Ukraine to gain a tactical advantage in certain operations.

The V-BAT's characteristics set it apart from other reconnaissance drones. It is 2,7 meters long and has a wingspan of 3 meters, while weighing 57 kilograms. The drone can reach speeds of up to 90 km/h and can stay in the air for up to 10 hours, rising to an altitude of up to 6,1 kilometers. At the same time, its flight range is up to 483 kilometers, which allows it to cover large areas for reconnaissance purposes.

Despite the stated advantages, the exact achievements of V-BAT on the battlefield are still unclear. As experts note, in the complex operational environment of Ukraine, drones could show more tactical successes if their capabilities were fully realized.