Anduril’s YFQ-44A makes first flight, advancing USAF drone-wingman competition - AeroTime

Anduril’s YFQ-44A Makes First Flight, Pushing Forward USAF Drone-Wingman Program

Anduril Industries' jet-powered uncrewed aircraft YFQ-44A successfully completed its first flight on October 31, 2025. The test marks a major advancement in the U.S. Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) initiative, aimed at developing autonomous drone "wingmen" to operate with piloted fighters.

Key Flight Details

The maiden flight occurred at Southern California Logistics Airport in Victorville, California. During the test, the YFQ-44A autonomously executed its mission plan, managed flight control and throttle adjustments without direct human input, and returned to land under operator guidance.

“This aircraft is ushering in this new paradigm with incredible technical precision,” said Jason Levin, Anduril’s Senior Vice President for Air Dominance and Strike.

Advancement in the CCA Competition

This milestone positions Anduril as the second company to enter the flight-test phase of the CCA Increment 1 program, following General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. General Atomics’ YFQ-42A prototype completed its initial flight in August 2025 at Gray Butte, California.

About the CCA Program

The Collaborative Combat Aircraft program is designed to integrate autonomous drones as teammates for human pilots, expanding the Air Force’s tactical flexibility and operational reach while reducing risk to personnel.

Author’s summary: Anduril’s autonomous YFQ-44A drone’s maiden flight marks a major leap forward in the U.S. Air Force’s efforts to field autonomous combat partners for manned jets.

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AeroTime AeroTime — 2025-11-04

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