JSW Defence Pvt. Ltd., part of India’s $24 billion JSW Group, has announced a strategic collaboration with US-based defence technology leader Shield AI, Inc. This partnership is set to enhance India’s defence capabilities through the local manufacturing of the “V-BAT” Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), marking a substantial move towards the indigenization of cutting-edge military technology.
JSW Group’s commitment involves an investment of approximately $90 million over the next two years, with $65 million earmarked for the first year. This funding will facilitate the establishment of a manufacturing facility, ensure adherence to global compliance standards, and support training programs for personnel. The initiative will foster the creation of a robust local supply chain, positioning India as a strategic production hub for the V-BAT aircraft.
The V-BAT, a Group 3 UAS, features a unique fixed-wing, vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) design. Its compact structure and patented ducted fan allow for a minimal logistics footprint and rapid deployment. This versatile platform, currently used by various global armed forces, including the US Marine Expeditionary Units, delivers long-endurance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. The system’s adaptability makes it invaluable for forward deployment in challenging terrains, enhancing situational awareness for special forces, infantry, armoured units, and artillery.
Parth Jindal, representing JSW Group, emphasized the importance of this venture: “Our collaboration with Shield AI aligns with our mission to integrate mission-critical technologies for the Indian Armed Forces and contribute to the indigenization of defence technology in India. This partnership will enable us to produce and supply V-BATs at scale, while also offering operator training and comprehensive MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) services.”
This collaboration is particularly significant in the context of Indo-US defence ties. Sarjan Shah, Shield AI’s Managing Director for India, noted, “Shield AI has been committed to investing in India, aligning with both nations’ goals for a closely integrated defence supply chain. Over several years, we have shaped this partnership to bolster India’s capabilities in unmanned systems.”
Brandon Tseng, President and Co-Founder of Shield AI and a former Navy SEAL, highlighted the broader strategic implications: “This partnership with JSW strengthens our dedication to deploying advanced UAS technology worldwide and leverages India’s engineering and manufacturing expertise. As a Major Defence Partner of the US and a Strategic Trade Authorization tier 1 nation, India is poised to play a pivotal role in global defence collaboration.”
Tseng also underscored the market’s shift towards cost-effective unmanned systems. “JSW recognizes, as we do, that Group 3 UAS like the V-BAT can perform missions traditionally handled by helicopters or larger UAS at a fraction of the cost. This strategic move supports Shield AI’s continued US expansion and global distribution, building on substantial investments already made,” he added.
With this collaboration, JSW Defence and Shield AI are set to drive forward the indigenization of defence manufacturing in India, positioning the nation as a significant player in the global defence technology landscape.