Overview
- GA-ASI flew a second YFQ-42A, expanding its test fleet as both Increment 1 competitors move into flight trials.
- Anduril’s YFQ-44A completed its maiden flight on October 31 in Victorville and executed an autonomous mission plan before landing under operator control, the company said.
- A report to Congress named the F-22 as the initial pairing platform for CCAs, with integration on other fighters under consideration, according to Aviation Week.
- Anduril plans live weapons testing next year and prototype-scale production in 2026 at its Arsenal-1 facility in Ohio.
- Analysts caution that capped autonomy, unclear employment concepts, and potential attrition and sustainment strains limit how far CCAs can offset a fighter shortfall estimated at 1,558 required versus 1,271 in fiscal 2026.