The US Air Force’s stealth-focused unmanned combat aircraft, the YFQ-42A, has successfully completed its first test flight. The prototype jet, developed by General Atomics, took off from a classified facility in California. This first flight marked a significant milestone in the US Air Force’s Cooperative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program.

The US military is developing an unmanned combat aircraft

The test flight collected data on the aircraft’s autonomous systems, flight performance, and the integration of mission hardware. In addition to General Atomics, another company, Anduril, is developing the YFQ-44A as part of the CCA program, and this model is expected to take flight soon. The US Air Force awarded both companies their first CCA contracts in 2024.

The YFQ-42A was designed with the experience gained from General Atomics’ previous models, such as the MQ-20 Avenger. Thanks to its advanced autonomy software, it can operate semi-autonomously alongside piloted combat aircraft. The aircraft’s notable features include its stealthy aerodynamics and a range of over 700 nautical miles.

The US Air Force aims to use these unmanned jets alongside sixth-generation fighter jets such as the F-35 and the developing F-47. The planned production of at least 1,000 of this unmanned fleet, also known as the “Loyal Wingmate,” is planned.

Both the YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A can be used in a variety of missions, including air-to-air strikes, reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and attracting enemy fire. One of the most striking aspects of the program is the rapid progress from concept to first flight in just two years.

The US Air Force will decide which prototype will enter mass production in fiscal 2026. Officials state that these vehicles, thanks to their modular and open system architecture, can be continuously improved.