Summary
The MQ-28A Ghost Bat combat drone successfully conducted a test where it fired an AIM‑120 air-to-air missile. Australia has signed a contract with Boeing Defence Australia to acquire six of these drones, marking a significant step in autonomous combat aviation.
Key Facts
- The MQ-28A Ghost Bat is a combat drone that fired an AIM‑120 missile in a live test.
- Australia signed a contract with Boeing for six drones, worth about $663 million.
- The Ghost Bat drones are designed to work with manned aircraft, increasing their range and safety.
- The recent test included cooperation with a manned E‑7A Wedgetail and an F/A‑18 fighter.
- Turkey's Bayraktar Kizilelma drone also has advanced capabilities but focuses on autonomous attacks.
- This test marked the first time an autonomous aircraft completed an air-to-air weapon engagement.
- Boeing plans to integrate the Ghost Bat drones into broader Royal Australian Air Force operations.
