Overview
- Local residents first posted photos of an MQ-28 on Rota Island before officials confirmed the aircraft was present for the exercise.
- Valiant Shield’s Joint Information Bureau confirmed that U.S. forces are integrating and testing the MQ-28 during the multinational exercise.
- Boeing’s Ghost Bat is operating as a 'loyal wingman' alongside piloted fighters to test human-machine teaming and command-and-control concepts.
- The Air Force is using the flights to inform requirements for possible Collaborative Combat Aircraft purchases but has not made any service selections or formal procurement decisions.
- Australia funded early deliveries and Boeing has cited test milestones, yet key technical details and which software or block is flying remain undisclosed, leaving interoperability and acquisition questions to watch next.