Anduril YFQ-44A Fury collaborative combat aircraft flies for 1st time

Anduril YFQ-44A Fury Completes Maiden Flight

Anduril's YFQ-44A Fury collaborative combat aircraft prototype successfully completed its first flight in California at the end of October. This marks a significant milestone in the development of the loyal wingman drone designed for the U.S. Air Force.

Flight Details and Context

The maiden flight occurred at the Southern California Logistics Airport in Victorville, California, accompanied by two L-29 Delfin trainer jets. Anduril has not disclosed many technical specifics about the test but confirmed several YFQ-44 prototypes are currently undergoing ground testing.

Industry Position and Milestones

This test flight follows General Atomics’ YFQ-42A drone, which first flew in August, highlighting ongoing competition in autonomous combat aircraft technology. Flight testing is crucial to validate capabilities such as speed, maneuverability, autonomy, stealth, range, and weapons system integration.

Anduril stated, “From clean-sheet design to one-click takeoff in 556 days.”

Procurement Prospects

While exact procurement numbers remain uncertain, the Air Force has indicated a potential acquisition of approximately 1,000 CCAs, with an initial batch of 100-150 aircraft in Increment I.

Summary

The YFQ-44A Fury's maiden flight marks a key advancement in autonomous combat aircraft, underscoring rapid development and the expanding role of loyal wingman drones in modern airpower.

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Aerospace Global News Aerospace Global News — 2025-11-04

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