Boeing and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) have successfully completed a first-of-its-kind mission, using two airborne MQ-28 Ghost Bat aircraft and a third virtual aircraft, all remotely controlled by an operator aboard an E-7A Wedgetail.
The mission showcased how a single operator can direct multiple uncrewed MQ-28s to support and protect manned platforms by flying ahead of them.
This advanced control capability was made possible through software developed collaboratively by Boeing Defence Australia, the Defence Science and Technology Group, and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratories.
The demonstration is part of the Capability Demonstration 2025 (CD25) series, which will continue to validate the MQ-28’s effectiveness and its ability to integrate with RAAF’s manned assets.
Future exercises will further explore teaming between the MQ-28 and other platforms like the F/A-18F Super Hornet and F-35 fighters.
