The prototype of Anduril's YFQ-44A Fury collaborative combat aircraft recently completed its maiden flight in California. This "loyal wingman" drone made its first flight on the last day of October, marking a significant milestone in its development for the U.S. Air Force.
The test flight took place at Southern California Logistics Airport in Victorville and was accompanied by two L-29 Delfin trainer jets. Anduril has multiple YFQ-44 prototypes currently undergoing ground testing.
The flight test aims to demonstrate the aircraft's ability to meet performance goals such as speed, maneuverability, autonomy, stealth, range, and weapons systems integration.
This event follows General Atomics’ YFQ-42A drone’s first flight in August, highlighting a competitive push in developing loyal wingman drones.
Anduril tweeted: "From clean-sheet design to one-click takeoff in 556 days."
The exact number of CCAs the Air Force will acquire remains unclear, but estimates suggest they may order about 1,000 aircraft overall, with 100–150 planned for the initial increment.
Anduril's YFQ-44A Fury marks a key advancement in autonomous combat aircraft, pushing the future of aerial warfare with innovative loyal wingman technology.