Anduril Begins Flight Testing of YFQ-44A Collaborative Combat Aircraft
US defense technology company Anduril has begun flight testing its new YFQ-44A semi-autonomous fighter, created for collaboration with crewed aircraft under the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program.
First Flight and Development
The YFQ-44A completed its maiden flight on October 31, following 18 months of development from an entirely new design to a fully operational prototype. The aircraft’s tests included autonomous taxiing and takeoff without remote control.
Program Goals
The CCA program aims to strengthen the survivability, lethality, and efficiency of U.S. air power by enabling seamless cooperation between autonomous and manned platforms or allowing unmanned independent operations when needed.
Testing Objectives
- Assessing speed, maneuverability, and stealth characteristics
- Testing the range and integration of weapon systems
- Evaluating the aircraft’s autonomy and decision-making abilities
Aircraft Capabilities
“The fully integrated weapon system processes data at combat speeds, identifies targets, and commands effects to enhance combined team performance.”
The YFQ-44A can execute mission plans independently, control throttle and flight paths without human input, and perform automated landings with a single command.
Summary
The YFQ-44A represents a key milestone in manned-unmanned aerial collaboration, combining rapid autonomous response, intelligent mission management, and advanced integration with crewed aircraft.
Author’s summary: Anduril’s YFQ-44A shows the future of autonomous air combat, blending AI-driven autonomy with human-led coordination for next-generation mission capabilities.