By David Jeans

(Reuters) -Silicon Valley-based defense technology firm Shield AI has launched a conceptual model of its large X-Bat drone, the company said on Wednesday, joining a growing field of companies vying to supply the U.S. military with mini fighter jet-style drones.

The company said the X-Bat, which looks like a shrunken B-2 Bomber, is currently conceptual and does not have any contracts signed. The company said the model, which will be sold for close to $30 million and designed to launch and land vertically with a jet engine, will be able to travel more than 2,000 nautical miles with a full payload.

“X-BAT’s ability to autonomously operate standalone or collaboratively allows it to project power,” said Armor Harris, senior vice president of aircraft at Shield AI.

Shield AI i

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