Anduril YFQ-44A Fury Collaborative Combat Aircraft Completes Maiden Flight
Anduril’s YFQ-44A Fury prototype, a collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) also known as a loyal wingman drone, completed its first flight at Southern California Logistics Airport in Victorville, California, on the last day of October.
The flight marked a significant milestone as the contractor accelerates development of the drone for the U.S. Air Force. The aircraft flew accompanied by two L-29 Delfin trainer jets, though detailed information about the test was limited.
Flight Context and Comparison
- The YFQ-44A Fury test flight follows General Atomics’ YFQ-42A drone’s inaugural flight in August.
- Anduril is currently conducting ground tests on multiple prototype YFQ-44s in addition to the recent flight.
- Flight testing evaluates the aircraft’s capabilities like speed, maneuverability, autonomy, stealth, range, and weapons integration.
"From clean-sheet design to one-click takeoff in 556 days."
Projected Procurement
The Air Force's procurement plans remain uncertain, but earlier indications suggest acquiring approximately 1,000 aircraft, with roughly 100 to 150 units planned for the first increment.
Author's Summary
The successful maiden flight of Anduril's YFQ-44A Fury marks a major step in developing autonomous loyal wingman drones for future U.S. Air Force operations.