Anduril YFQ-44A Fury Collaborative Combat Aircraft Completes Maiden Flight
The prototype of Anduril's YFQ-44A Fury collaborative combat aircraft successfully completed its first flight in California at the end of October. The test flight took place at Southern California Logistics Airport in Victorville and involved two accompanying L-29 Delfin trainer jets.
Known as a "loyal wingman" drone, the Fury YFQ-44A aims to support manned aircraft with advanced autonomy, stealth, and weapon systems integration. Anduril has multiple YFQ-44 prototypes currently undergoing ground testing as it pushes forward with development.
From clean-sheet design to one-click takeoff in 556 days.
The effort follows similar developments from General Atomics, whose YFQ-42A drone completed its first flight in August. While Anduril has not disclosed many details about the flight, it represents a significant milestone in advancing drone collaboration for the U.S. Air Force.
The exact procurement quantity remains uncertain, though the Air Force has previously suggested acquiring around 1,000 collaborative combat aircraft, with approximately 100-150 in the initial Increment I phase.
Key Points
- Maiden flight occurred in late October at Southern California Logistics Airport, Victorville.
- Fury YFQ-44A is designed as a loyal wingman drone to support manned aircraft.
- Flight accompanied by two L-29 Delfin trainer jets.
- Multiple prototypes are in ground testing stages.
- Flight testing evaluates speed, maneuverability, autonomy, stealth, range, and weapons integration.
- Air Force anticipates possibly 1,000 total aircraft with 100-150 in initial increments.
Context
The YFQ-44A Fury project reflects Anduril's rapid development pace in modern airpower technology, progressing from concept to flight in under two years. This flight follows General Atomics’ YFQ-42A drone debut earlier the same year, highlighting competitive advancement in collaborative combat aircraft.
Author's Summary
The Fury YFQ-44A's first flight marks a major step in drone-enabled air combat, showcasing swift progress towards autonomous "loyal wingman" capabilities for the U.S. Air Force.