Anduril’s YFQ-44A Fury prototype, a collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) also known as a loyal wingman drone, completed its maiden flight at the end of October in California. This milestone marks a significant step in the development of autonomous combat drones for the U.S. Air Force.
The prototype’s first flight occurred at Southern California Logistics Airport in Victorville, accompanied by two L-29 Delfin trainer jets. Although Anduril provided few specifics about the flight, it confirmed multiple YFQ-44 prototypes are undergoing ground testing ahead of further evaluations.
From clean-sheet design to one-click takeoff in 556 days.
This test flight follows General Atomics' earlier YFQ-42A drone flight in August. The U.S. Air Force aims to integrate these loyal wingman drones alongside manned aircraft to enhance combat capabilities through advanced autonomy and systems integration.
Anduril’s YFQ-44A prototype reflects a rapid innovation timeline, highlighting the shift toward autonomous military aviation.
Author’s summary: Anduril’s YFQ-44A Fury successfully completed its first flight, marking a key phase in the U.S. Air Force’s effort to deploy advanced loyal wingman drones with enhanced autonomous combat capabilities.