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| Image: AI Generated |
Washington, DC, February 24 - The U.S. Air Force, in collaboration with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., has achieved a significant milestone in advanced aerial warfare with the latest autonomy demonstration involving the F-22 Raptor and MQ-20 Avenger. Conducted at Edwards Air Force Base in California, the test featured a human-piloted F-22 Raptor serving as the command aircraft, directing the unmanned MQ-20 Avenger through real-time commands via tactical data link and sophisticated autonomy software. This exercise built upon prior integrations, showcasing enhanced manned-unmanned teaming (MUMT) capabilities that allow a fifth-generation stealth fighter to orchestrate operations with an autonomous jet, marking another step toward seamless collaborative combat in contested environments.
The demonstration leveraged the latest government reference autonomy software aboard the F-22 Raptor, paired with General Atomics' Autonodyne Bashi Pilot Vehicle Interface on the MQ-20 Avenger. Through this setup, the pilot issued directives that the unmanned platform received and executed autonomously, including performing tactical maneuvers, adjusting waypoints dynamically, flying Combat Air Patrol (CAP) profiles, and simulating airborne threat engagement tasks. Onboard sensors on the MQ-20 enabled independent decision-making while maintaining continuous coordination with the F-22, highlighting rapid message exchange and responsive command execution in a realistic operational scenario.
This test underscores the evolving role of unmanned systems as force multipliers for crewed fighters like the F-22 Raptor. By enabling the stealth fighter to delegate tasks to an autonomous companion, the concept expands mission reach, enhances situational awareness, and reduces risk to human pilots in high-threat areas. The MQ-20 Avenger, serving as a surrogate for future Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), demonstrated its maturity in processing commands and adapting to dynamic mission elements, paving the way for integrated formations where manned and unmanned platforms operate as cohesive units.
Advancements in autonomy and manned-unmanned teaming represent a transformative shift in U.S. air superiority strategy. As the Air Force progresses toward fielding dedicated Collaborative Combat Aircraft, demonstrations like this with the F-22 Raptor and MQ-20 Avenger validate key technologies for next-generation air combat. The successful execution of complex, simulated engagements during the flight reinforces confidence in systems that blend human oversight with machine precision, ensuring dominance in future contested airspace while accelerating the integration of autonomous assets into tactical operations.