Collaborative Combat Aircraft
One of the most exciting developments in the Air Force’s modernization efforts is the ramped-up experimentation with collaborative combat aircraft (CCA), or “robot wingmen.” These drones, as previously discussed, are designed to work alongside manned fighters, providing tactical support and expanding the capabilities of traditional aircraft.
The Air Force has recently approved additional CCA purchases for its experimental operations unit at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.
General Atomics and Anduril, the two companies developing initial CCA prototypes, have already cleared critical design reviews.
The Air Force expects to begin flight tests next year, a crucial step toward operational deployment. These drones are intended to be affordable and scalable, ensuring that the service can procure them in large numbers without breaking the budget.
Building Trust with Autonomous Systems
The experimental operations unit at Nellis will play a vital role in refining tactics, techniques, and procedures for integrating CCAs into combat scenarios.
The Air Force aims to build trust with these autonomous systems by using real assets in a controlled environment. This includes understanding how they interact with manned fighters and evaluating their performance in complex missions.
General Atomics and Anduril have designed their CCAs to be cost-effective alternatives to manned aircraft.
According to Hunter, these drones will cost a fraction of an F-35, making them an attractive option for expanding the Air Force’s capabilities without straining its budget.
This focus on affordability aligns with broader modernization efforts, including the development of a sixth-generation fighter and next-generation tanker.
Affordability and Modernization: Balancing Priorities
Hunter stressed that affordability is a cornerstone of the Air Force’s modernization strategy.
As the service works on three interconnected programs—the CCA, the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter, and the next-generation tanker—budget constraints remain a significant challenge.
Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall has signaled that the current plans may need to be adjusted, reinforcing the importance of cost management from the outset.
The Air Force’s approach to CCAs exemplifies this balance. By focusing on “good enough” solutions rather than aiming for perfection, the service can keep costs in check while still delivering effective capabilities.
This pragmatism ensures that the service can meet its operational goals without compromising its financial sustainability.
Final Thoughts
The US Air Force’s overhaul of its acquisition strategy marks a pivotal shift in how the service prepares for future conflicts. By emphasizing mission systems, fostering competition, and prioritizing affordability, the Air Force is positioning itself to meet the challenges of a potential conflict in the Indo-Pacific.
Programs like the collaborative combat aircraft highlight the service’s commitment to innovation and adaptability, ensuring that it remains a formidable force in the face of evolving threats.
As the Air Force continues to experiment and refine its approach, these efforts will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping the future of air combat.
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