In less than two years since launching its Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, the U.S. Department of the Air Force has flown a prototype platform, underscoring a shift in how the service develops and fields new weapon systems.
The unmanned aircraft, designated YFQ-42A, was developed with General Atomics and conducted its first flight at a California test site. The milestone provided valuable data on airworthiness, flight autonomy, and mission system integration, the department said.
The CCA program is central to the Air Force’s push for large numbers of affordable, modular uncrewed aircraft capable of flying alongside fifth- and sixth-generation fighters. These aircraft are intended to enhance combat operations through human-machine teaming and expand operational reach.
“This milestone showcases what’s possible when innovative acquisition meets motivated industry,” said Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink. “In record time, CCA went from concept to flight — proving we can deliver combat capability at speed when we clear barriers and align around the warfighter.”
The CCA effort is part of the Next Generation Air Dominance Family of Systems, which incorporates a modular, software-defined approach to airpower. By drawing on multiple industry solutions and adopting open-system architectures, the program aims to reduce development risks, promote rapid innovation, and allow continuous upgrades to autonomy and mission systems.
“This is More Air Force in action,” said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin. “We’re not just moving fast — we’re learning fast. CCA will help us rethink the battlespace, extend reach, flexibility and lethality in combat operations, and optimize warfighter performance through human-machine teaming.”
To accelerate delivery, the program is conducting a broad learning campaign that includes vendor-led developmental testing, independent evaluations at Edwards Air Force Base in California, and operational assessments by the Experimental Operations Unit at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada. According to the department, this structure ensures the force can quickly integrate and employ the new capability, enhancing readiness and enabling a swift transition to combat power once production begins.
The Air Force previously selected Anduril Industries and General Atomics to build production-representative prototypes under the program. A competitive decision for Increment 1 production is expected in fiscal year 2026.
The Department of the Air Force has emphasized that this approach demonstrates a new acquisition model—one that prioritizes speed, flexibility, and partnership with industry to meet emerging threats. The rapid development and flight of the YFQ-42A reflects what officials describe as a “paradigm shift” in the service’s ability to field combat systems at the pace of modern conflict.