U.S. Air Force starts groundbreaking testing of drone wingmen

In early May 2025, the U.S. Air Force made a significant advancement in its sixth-generation fighter program by initiating ground testing for its Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. This step is part of the broader Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) initiative, which seeks to integrate autonomous systems into aerial combat strategies. Air Force chief of staff General David Allvin shared this milestone on social media, highlighting its importance for the continuous evolution of military aerial capabilities and operational readiness for the warfighters involved. The development of these unmanned loyal wingman drones represents a historic change in U.S. military aviation, marking what officials describe as a 'new chapter in aerial warfare.' The CCAs are designed to operate in a supportive role alongside crewed sixth-generation fighters, effectively enhancing combat effectiveness while reducing costs. The Air Force has already announced intentions to procure at least 1,000 of these unmanned aircraft as part of its strategy, a decision made earlier in 2023. Key leaders, including former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall, have emphasized the advantages of utilizing uncrewed drones to mitigate risks to human pilots and adapt to challenging combat scenarios. These aircraft can be engineered to be less survivable but still contribute significantly to missions by creating confusion for enemies and even serving as decoys. The F-47, designated as the U.S. Air Force’s sixth-generation aircraft, is set to feature advanced technologies such as new propulsion systems and stealth capabilities, reflecting the evolving nature of air combat. Incorporating CCAs into the NGAD program signifies a strategic shift not only in how future air combat will be conducted but also how resources will be allocated in terms of military expenditure. The integration of these unmanned fighters aims to provide a tactical advantage over adversaries, addressing existential challenges in modern warfare by ensuring flexibility and survivability. The program represents a commitment to innovation in defense strategies, aiming to harness new technologies to enhance the operational capability of the Air Force for years to come.