A US Air Force F-22 Raptor just showed off how it might work with a loyal wingman-type drone in a future air war
Business Insider
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The U.S. Air Force recently demonstrated how a crewed F-22 Raptor could collaborate with an autonomous drone, showcasing the potential for future air combat operations involving loyal wingmen. During tests at Edwards Air Force Base, an F-22 pilot used government-provided autonomy software and tactical data links to command a General Atomics MQ-20 Avenger drone, directing it to perform tasks like tactical maneuvers, combat patrols, and threat engagement. This builds on previous tests, including one in November 2025 where the pilot controlled the drone via tablet.
The Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program aims to develop drones that can work alongside human pilots as "loyal wingmen," enhancing mission capabilities without the need for a human crew. These drones are designed to be cost-effective, attritable options—cheaper and more expendable than manned aircraft like the F-35—allowing them to take on risky tasks in combat.
The demonstration highlights how CCAs could serve as force multipliers, augmenting the combat power of manned aircraft by adding sensors, weapons, and intelligence capabilities. The program is a key priority for the Air Force, with General Atomics, Anduril Industries, and Northrop Grumman developing prototype systems like the YFQ-42, YFQ-44, and YFQ-48A. These drones are envisioned to complement future sixth-generation fighters, such as Boeing’s F/A-XX, in both offensive and defensive roles.
From a business perspective, this advancement underscores the growing importance of autonomous systems and artificial intelligence in defense contracting. Companies like General Atomics are investing heavily in CCA technology, which could offer significant returns by providing scalable, cost-efficient solutions for modern air warfare. As global competition intensifies, particularly with near-peer adversaries, these innovations will play a crucial role in maintaining U.S. military dominance and strategic advantage on the battlefield.
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/23/2026