European and U.S. defense firms are accelerating development of AI-powered military drones designed to operate alongside fighter jets in future combat missions.
The development of the most sophisticated military drones was the main topic discussed at the Berlin Airshow. The world's largest manufacturers of defense industry technologies demonstrated new-generation unmanned aircraft meant to operate as wingmen for manned fighters. Autonomous military systems are gaining considerable attention since armed forces are searching for ways to improve situational awareness, electronic warfare capacities, and overall efficiency.
Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) are unmanned aerial systems that can operate as wingmen for existing combat aircraft. These aircraft are capable of carrying extra weapons, sensors, electronic jamming, and surveillance systems. The idea became popular due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine that showed the importance of drones, electronic warfare, and other advanced technologies in today's warfare. Analysts believe that AI-powered defense drones will become some of the most revolutionary inventions for military aviation.
Companies such as Boeing, Airbus, Helsing, and General Atomics showcased new-generation wingman platforms at the Berlin Airshow. The interest in next-generation military drones has become especially acute because Europe strives to boost its defense industry to avoid dependence on military products of foreign firms. The development of autonomous aircraft is also becoming an important part of the future air combat systems strategy.
The company announced its MQ-28 Ghost Bat, which is an unmanned fighter plane meant to serve as a force multiplier for manned aircraft. Boeing claims that it would be able to undertake reconnaissance missions, gather intelligence, assess the battlefield, and deliver relevant information to the humans. Boeing expects this machine to go operational for Germany's Luftwaffe by 2029.
In addition, Airbus is currently developing the U760b Ravenstorm, which is another autonomous wingman set to enter service during the 2030s decade. The company Helsing, which specializes in German defense technology, developed an electronic attack drone. It can fly independently in autonomous swarms and carry out strike operations in hostile environments.
Germany and France are also researching drones and developing their defense data network. This comes at a time when they have cancelled their efforts to develop a joint fighter jet project. Analysts suggest that the shift toward such technology suggests increased interest in pairing artificial intelligence with combat aircraft.
Though these technologies are yet to be developed, defense leaders consider them integral to the future of military airpower. Business Honor observes that investment in military drones and autonomous combat aircraft is accelerating globally, positioning AI-enabled defense technologies as a key growth area within the aerospace sector.
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