US EditionAir Force begins ground testing for CCA program
- The U.S. Air Force began ground testing of semi-autonomous Collaborative Combat Aircraft prototypes at Beale Air Force Base on May 1, 2025.
- This effort followed advocacy by leaders including Congressman LaMalfa and Senator Schiff, with Beale selected over Nevada and North Dakota for its strategic importance.
- The ground tests evaluate propulsion, avionics, autonomy systems, and control interfaces for General Atomics’ YFQ-42A and Anduril’s YFQ-44A to inform design and readiness for flight trials later this year.
- LaMalfa said, “This is a major win for Beale AFB,” while Air Force Chief of Staff Allvin noted the program uses innovative approaches to meet warfighter needs rapidly.
- The program aims to field drone wingmen before 2030 with a streamlined readiness unit that requires fewer personnel and sorties, supporting future modernization and expanded mission roles.
12 Articles
12 Articles
Air Force kicks off ground testing for CCA drones while preparing for first flight
The Air Force has begun ground testing prototypes for Increment 1 of its Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, the service announced Thursday. The tests represent a critical milestone for the CCA program, which is part of the Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) family of systems. The drones are expected to fly alongside the service’s manned platforms — including the sixth-gen F-47 fighter jet — to conduct a range of missions…
Air Force begins CCA ground testing
The Air Force began ground testing for its first two Collaborative Combat Aircraft, the service announced this morning, noting a major step for the program to integrate autonomous platforms into the future force. The testing includes evaluations on the Anduril Industries-made YFQ-44A’s and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems-made YFQ-42A’s propulsion systems, avionics, autonomy integration and ground control interfacts, the service said. Flight…
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