Anduril begins flight testing of YFQ-44A collaborative combat aircraft | Aerospace Testing International

Anduril Starts Flight Testing of YFQ-44A Collaborative Combat Aircraft

US defense technology company Anduril has begun flight testing its YFQ-44A, a semi-autonomous fighter designed to operate alongside manned aircraft under the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program.

First Flight and Testing Phase

The YFQ-44A completed its maiden flight on October 31. During initial tests, the aircraft performed taxiing and flight maneuvers using autonomous systems rather than remote control.

Development and Program Goals

Developed in partnership with the US Air Force, the YFQ-44A moved from a clean-sheet design to first flight within 18 months. The CCA program focuses on improving survivability, lethality, and mission efficiency through teaming with crewed fighters or by operating independently.

Flight Test Objectives

Autonomy and Combat Capabilities

The aircraft features a fully integrated weapons system that processes data at combat speed, identifies targets, and issues commands to enhance team effectiveness. It independently executes mission plans, manages flight controls and throttle without human input, and can return to base at the push of a button.

Anduril stated, "The YFQ-44A executes mission plans independently, managing flight control and throttle adjustment without human command, and returns to land at the push of a button."

Author’s summary: Anduril’s YFQ-44A demonstrates rapid development in autonomous teaming aircraft, advancing US Air Force efforts to enhance combat effectiveness through manned-unmanned collaboration.

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Aerospace Testing International Aerospace Testing International — 2025-11-04

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