Story perspectives

U.S. Air Force Set to Test Collaborative Combat Drones

8/25/2025

35 3

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Air Force will test its first Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) prototypes, YFQ-44A Fury and YFQ-42A, in August 2025.
These drones will serve as "loyal wingmen" to stealth jets, improving missile capabilities while maintaining stealth.
The Air Force plans to acquire up to 1,000 CCAs, with production contracts anticipated in fiscal 2026.
The Navy is investigating similar drone integration for its carrier air wings, highlighting the importance of trust in uncrewed systems.

1 of 1

Story summary

The U.S. Air Force will test its first Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) prototypes, YFQ-44A Fury and YFQ-42A, in August 2025.
These drones will serve as "loyal wingmen" to stealth jets, improving missile capabilities while maintaining stealth.
The Air Force plans to acquire up to 1,000 CCAs, with production contracts anticipated in fiscal 2026.
The Navy is investigating similar drone integration for its carrier air wings, highlighting the importance of trust in uncrewed systems.