DefenseNews.com
• Michael Peck
The Navy’s request for information seeks two fully functional Collaborative Combat Aircraft prototypes capable of catapult launches and arrested landings from aircraft carriers. The autonomous aircraft must carry up to 10,000 pounds of external weapons, operate directly from the sea and cost less than $30 million each.
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The Navy’s request for information seeks two fully functional Collaborative Combat Aircraft prototypes capable of catapult launches and arrested landings from aircraft carriers. The autonomous aircraft must carry up to 10,000 pounds of external weapons, operate directly from the sea and cost less than $30 million each.
The U.S. Navy has opened its long-anticipated search for a first tranche of Collaborative Combat Aircraft, requesting industry proposals for two fully functional uncrewed fighter prototypes to be delivered within three years. The effort marks the service’s initial step toward acquiring “loyal wingman” aircraft.
Shield AI and GE Aerospace are testing an F110 fighter engine equipped with an off-the-shelf Axisymmetric Vectoring Exhaust Nozzle for Shield AI’s X-Bat collaborative combat aircraft. The propulsion project combines a proven engine with thrust-vectoring technology intended to support the aircraft’s development.
South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration is seeking industry proposals for a 14-month study defining the requirements, design and technologies for a future sixth-generation fighter. The envisioned tailless aircraft would feature broadband stealth, adaptive-cycle engines and internal weapons bays, with propulsion remaining a central challenge.
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Electric aircraft from Beta Technologies, autonomous cargo drones from Elroy Air and other aircraft are set to participate in trials in Louisiana. The initiative will provide an operational testing environment for electric aviation and autonomous cargo systems, bringing multiple emerging aircraft technologies into the same program.
The 16th Air Force is developing a defensive “campaign plan” to address the growing threat posed by artificial intelligence-enabled hackers, commander Lt. Gen. Thomas Hensley said. Hensley characterized the moment as an inflection point for protecting Air Force networks as adversaries’ capabilities evolve.
Joint Task Force–Southern Border used the Army’s Multipurpose High Energy Laser system over two days this week to engage three hostile uncrewed aerial systems near the U.S.-Mexico border. The operation was conducted in support of U.S. Customs and Border Protection under U.S. Northern Command.
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Japan Airlines has introduced a remotely operated Aerowash AW3 aircraft-cleaning system at Tokyo Narita, aiming to improve washing efficiency and reduce water consumption. Following a training program, the system is expected to enter regular service in 2026, with reported washing-time savings of 40%.
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