New hints appeared that American F-15EX Eagle II fighter will perform role of command post for so-called loyal wingman drones, unmanned fighters that will in future be one of modern combat aviation system components.
During Valiant Shield 26 exercises held in Indo-Pacific region, during which B-2 bomber first showed LRASM missile, F-15EX Eagle II fighter was also first spotted paired with heavy MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone.
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TWZ reports this, with photos published on U.S. Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) page, which emphasized this is future of human-machine interaction in theater of operations. Currently details regarding MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone integration with F-15EX Eagle II fighter are not disclosed.
However overall, as publication notes, this is not surprising at all, as previously Boeing showed these aircraft paired in renders. They emphasize that with two-seat cockpit, large displays, computational and networking capabilities and long flight range, F-15EX Eagle II is ideal platform for unmanned fighter control. Especially relevant in Indo-Pacific region where exercises were held.
Moreover, updated MQ-28 Ghost Bat Block 3 modification received capability to carry over 900 kg more payload, overall over 2,000 kg, enabling taking more fuel or additional weapons. For example, it now has internal bays carrying two AIM-120 air-to-air missiles.
At the same time, currently unclear whether during exercises F-15EX fighter simply flew alongside MQ-28 drone, or drone control was conducted directly from this aircraft.
If the latter, also unknown whether Boeing will only develop loyal wingman drone concept on F-15EX Eagle II or whether this aircraft will become full drone fighter operator in future, although CCA drones (Collaborative Combat Aircraft — American companion drone creation program) are primarily designed for fifth and sixth-generation aircraft, this absolutely does not prohibit their operation from other platforms.
If CCA indeed transforms into universal concept where unmanned fighters can connect to any other platforms having corresponding capabilities and software for drone control, this opens interesting possibilities for other aircraft operators.
This is about how today's platforms can receive next-generation technologies. Although it is too early to speak about full unmanned fighter integration, let alone their mass availability, this opens interesting options, for example for Ukraine, which already concluded agreement for first 16 Gripen E and also plans to reinforce with Rafale.
Previously Defense Express reported how critical Poland's decision not to transfer last MiG-29s but scrap them is for Ukraine.
Read more: Ukraine Hits russian Rubikon Drone Training Hub in Pokrovsk Used to Prepare UAV Crews (Video)
