US Air Force set to fly with robotic wingmen in 2026

The United States Air Force is taking a historic step this year, integrating autonomous drones into real-world fighter jet operations. For the first time, human pilots will fly alongside robotic wingmen, combining human decision-making with machine precision.

In recent tests over California, F-22 Raptors were paired with MQ-20 Avenger drones at Edwards Air Force Base in a demonstration of “Manned-Unmanned Teaming,” Geekspin writes. 

The exercise allowed pilots to issue high-level commands while the drones independently processed sensor data, adjusted flight paths, and engaged in simulated combat scenarios.

“This demo highlighted the ability of autonomy to utilise onboard sensors to make independent decisions while executing commands from the F-22,” said David R. Alexander, president of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, which developed the MQ-20.

The technology represents a major shift in how the Air Force conducts missions. Instead of manually controlling every manoeuvre, pilots can act as mission commanders while drones take on tactical tasks, extending operational capabilities and reducing risk.

The MQ-20 has been a key part of the military’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) programme, serving as a testbed for autonomous operations.

A recent milestone also saw Collins Aerospace’s Sidekick software integrated onto the YFQ-42A, nicknamed “Dark Merlin,” which completed its first semi-autonomous mission lasting over four hours.

Officials say these developments signal a broader change in the U.S. military’s approach to fifth-generation fighters. By pairing human intuition with autonomous systems, the Air Force hopes to improve situational awareness and force multiplication, marking a new era of manned-unmanned teamwork in the skies.

By Aghakazim Guliyev