This article summarizes reporting by Aerospace America, publicly available elements and industry data.

Breaking the Autonomy Barrier: Anduril’s Fury and the Future of Air Combat

In a milestone that industry observers are comparing to the dawn of the supersonic age, Anduril Industries has successfully conducted the maiden flight of its YFQ-44A “Fury.” According to reporting by Aerospace America, the flight took place on October 31, 2025, at the Southern California Logistics Airport in Victorville. This event marks a significant leap forward for the U.S. Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, which seeks to pair autonomous “loyal wingman” drones with crewed fighters.

The test flight was distinct from traditional drone operations. Rather than relying on a remote pilot manipulating a stick and throttle, the Fury was operated via a “push-button” interface. A ground operator issued a single command, and the aircraft autonomously handled its taxi, takeoff, flight maneuvers, and landing. This capability validates Anduril’s “Lattice” software, the core autonomy platform designed to manage high-performance jet aircraft in complex environments.

The “History-Making” Flight

The timing and framing of the event draw a deliberate parallel to Chuck Yeager’s historic 1947 flight in the Bell X-1. Just as Yeager broke the “autonomy barrier,” proving that software can match or exceed human reflexes in air combat. Aerospace America notes that Yeager himself predicted a future where autonomous systems would dominate the skies, a prediction that appears to be materializing at test ranges like Edwards Air Force Base, where AI agents have already engaged in simulated dogfights against human pilots.

Performance and Specifications

The YFQ-44A Fury is designed to operate as a high-performance Autonomous Air Vehicle (AAV). According to data released regarding the flight, the aircraft boasts impressive specifications intended to match fifth-generation fighters like the F-35:

• Speed: High subsonic (approximately Mach 0.95).
• Maneuverability: Capable of pulling 9g, matching the physical limits of human-piloted fighters.
• Role: Long-range missions with “affordable mass” economics.

The concept of “affordable mass” is central to the Fury’s design philosophy. By targeting a unit cost of $20–$30 million, significantly less than the $80 million-plus price tag of a manned fighter, the Air Force hopes to deploy these assets in numbers large enough to overwhelm adversary defenses.

Strategic Context: The CCA Competition

Anduril is currently locked in a high-stakes competition for the Air Force’s CCA program. As one of two finalists for “Increment 1,” Anduril is competing against General Atomics, the defense incumbent known for the Predator and Reaper drones. General Atomics is fielding its own prototype, the YFQ-42A.

The Air Force is expected to make a final production decision in Fiscal Year 2026. To prepare for potential mass production, Anduril is establishing “Arsenal-1,” a large-scale manufacturing facility in Columbus, Ohio. This facility aims to leverage commercial manufacturing techniques to produce defense hardware at speeds comparable to the automotive industry.

AirPro News analysis

The successful flight of the Fury represents a pivot point in defense aviation. For decades, air superiority relied on training the best pilots. The shift toward the CCA program suggests that the future of air dominance will rely on the best algorithms. Anduril’s ability to move from a “clean sheet” design to a flying, high-performance air vehicle in approximately 18 months challenges the traditional, decades-long development cycles of the defense sector. If the “Lattice” system proves robust in upcoming mission autonomy tests, specifically in coordinating lethal force with human oversight, it could fundamentally alter the structure of the U.S. Air Force.

What Comes Next?

Following the successful first flight, the testing regimen for the Fury will intensify. Future tests will move beyond basic airworthiness to complex mission autonomy. These evaluations will focus on the aircraft’s ability to coordinate with manned fighters, manage payload releases, and execute the “kill chain”, finding, fixing, and engaging targets autonomously.

“The future of air superiority isn’t about a better pilot; it’s about a better algorithm.”

— Industry sentiment regarding the CCA program

As the 2026 production decision approaches, the performance of the Fury in these advanced trials will likely determine whether Anduril can secure its place as a prime contractor for the next generation of American air power.

Sources

• Aerospace America

This article summarizes reporting by Reuters and official announcements from the Royal Navy.

UK Royal Navy Launches “Proteus” Autonomous Helicopter to Counter North Atlantic Threats

The United Kingdom’s Royal Navy has successfully conducted the maiden flight of its first full-sized autonomous Helicopters, “Proteus.” According to reporting by Reuters and official statements released on Friday, January 16, 2026, the aircraft is designed to track submarines and perform high-risk logistics missions, marking a significant technological shift in how the UK plans to secure the North Atlantic.

The flight, which took place at Predannack Airfield in Cornwall, represents a major milestone in the Ministry of Defence’s “Atlantic Bastion” strategy. As tensions regarding undersea infrastructure and Russian submarine activity continue to rise, the introduction of heavy-lift uncrewed systems aims to reduce risk to human crews while maintaining persistent surveillance capabilities.

The Proteus Platform: A New Class of Drone

Unlike smaller quadcopters or light tactical Drones previously employed by naval forces, Proteus is a substantial rotary-wing aircraft. Manufactured by Leonardo Helicopters in Yeovil, UK, the platform is derived from the Kopter AW09 single-engine civil helicopter.

According to data released regarding the program, the aircraft has a maximum take-off weight of approximately 3 tonnes and a payload capacity exceeding 1 tonne. This size allows it to carry heavy anti-submarine warfare (ASW) sensors and supplies that smaller drones cannot lift.

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

The £60 million (approx. $80 million USD) program focuses on delivering a “force multiplier” for the Royal Navy. During the January 16 test, the aircraft taxied and flew under its own autonomous control system, though human test pilots monitored the operation from the ground to ensure safety.

Key capabilities highlighted in official reports include:

• Autonomy: Capable of independent flight operations without an onboard pilot.
• Resilience: Engineered to withstand high winds and rough sea states that would fatigue human pilots.
• Mission Profile: Anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance, and ship-to-ship logistics.

Nigel Colman, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters UK, emphasized the operational benefits of the platform in a statement following the flight:

“Proteus represents a step-change in how maritime aviation can deliver persistence, adaptability and reach – conducting the dull, dirty and dangerous missions in challenging environments without putting human operators at risk.”

Strategic Context: The “Atlantic Bastion”

The deployment of Proteus is integral to the UK’s “Atlantic Bastion” initiative. This strategic framework was developed in response to what defense officials describe as “evolving threats” to critical undersea cables and pipelines in the North Atlantic.

By integrating uncrewed systems like Proteus with traditional crewed vessels, such as Type 26 frigates and Merlin Mk2 helicopters, the Royal Navy aims to create a “Hybrid Navy.” In this operational model, autonomous systems handle long-endurance surveillance and hazardous tasks, freeing up human crews, for complex command and decision-making roles.

Luke Pollard, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, commented on the significance of the launch for the UK’s defense sector:

“This maiden flight is a proud moment for British innovation. Designed and built in Yeovil, Proteus supports skilled UK jobs while helping deliver the hybrid navy outlined in our Strategic Defence Review.”

AirPro News Analysis

The successful flight of Proteus signals a maturation in naval drone strategy. Previously, uncrewed maritime systems were largely limited to small intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) roles. The shift toward converting full-sized, certified civil airframes (like the AW09) into autonomous military assets suggests that navies are no longer satisfied with mere observation; they require autonomous systems capable of heavy lifting and active operational roles.

Furthermore, the economic angle is notable. By basing the platform on an existing commercial airframe, the Royal Navy and Leonardo likely reduced development time and costs compared to designing a clean-sheet military drone. This approach mirrors trends in the commercial sector, where adapting proven platforms for autonomy is often more viable than building from scratch.

Official Navy Reaction

Naval leadership has framed the test as a validation of their future aviation roadmap. Commodore Steve Bolton, the Royal Navy’s Deputy Director for Aviation Future Programmes, noted that the flight was essential for maintaining an edge over adversaries.

“The successful first flight of Proteus is a significant step in delivering the Royal Navy’s maritime aviation transformation vision… This milestone signals our intent to lead technological innovation… to maintain operational advantage against evolving maritime threats.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Proteus helicopter armed?
Current official statements focus on Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) sensors, surveillance, and logistics. While ASW missions traditionally involve weaponry, the primary role emphasized during this phase is tracking and logistics.

Who manufactures the Proteus?
The aircraft is designed and built by Leonardo Helicopters at their facility in Yeovil, United Kingdom.

How much did the program cost?
The reported program cost is £60 million (approximately $80 million USD).

Was a pilot on board during the test?
No. The aircraft flew autonomously, monitored by ground-based test pilots.

Sources: Royal Navy

This article is based on an official press release from Airbus.

France Orders Six Airbus VSR700 Uncrewed Aerial Systems for Navy Frigates

The French Armament General Directorate (DGA) has officially placed an order for six VSR700 Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS), marking a significant milestone in the modernization of the French Navy’s aerial capabilities. Confirmed on January 16, 2026, this contract initiates the serial production phase of the SDAM program (Système de Drone Aérien pour la Marine).

According to the official announcement from Airbus, the systems will be delivered and are scheduled to enter service by 2028. The procurement involves a collaboration between two major defense contractors: Airbus Helicopters, responsible for the aircraft and flight control systems, and Naval Group, which handles the mission systems and ship integration.

This order follows a framework agreement signed previously at the Paris Air Show in June 2025, solidifying the transition from development and risk reduction to operational deployment. The VSR700 is designed to serve as a primary intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) asset, extending the detection horizon of French naval vessels.

Operational Capabilities and Naval Integration

The VSR700 is a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drone derived from the Guimbal Cabri G2, a proven two-seat civilian helicopter. By utilizing a certified civilian airframe, the program aims to lower operating costs while maintaining high reliability. The drone is powered by a Thielert Centurion 2.0 diesel engine, which utilizes heavy fuel (JP-5/JP-8), ensuring compatibility with standard naval logistics.

According to technical specifications released regarding the program, the VSR700 offers the following performance metrics:

• Endurance: Over 8 hours with a full ISR payload.
• Speed: Maximum speed of 185 km/h (100 knots).
• Operational Ceiling: Approximately 6,000 meters (20,000 ft).
• Payload: Approximately 100 kg dedicated to mission sensors, including the Diades Marine maritime radar and Safran Euroflir 410 electro-optical system.

Autonomous Systems and Ship Compatibility

A critical requirement for the SDAM program is the ability to operate in rough maritime environments. Airbus states that the VSR700 features an Autonomous Take-Off and Landing (ATOL) system capable of functioning in conditions up to Sea State 5. The aircraft utilizes the Airbus DeckFinder system, which enables precision landings with 10-20 cm accuracy on moving decks without relying on GPS.

The systems will be integrated into the French Navy’s primary surface combatants, specifically the FREMM (Aquitaine-class) and FDI (Amiral Ronarc’h-class) frigates. Naval Group provides the Steeris® Mission System, which feeds drone data directly into the ship’s Combat Management System (CMS), allowing the crew to process drone intelligence seamlessly alongside onboard sensor data.

“We are honored that the French Ministry for the Armed Forces has decided to launch the next phase of the VSR700 programme… Our teams are focused on providing the French Navy with a reliable, high-performance tool that enhances their sovereignty and mission success.”

, Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters

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Strategic Context and Future Development

The confirmation of this order represents a push for sovereign French defense capabilities. The DGA has indicated that the SDAM program is open to other nations via government-to-government contracts, positioning the VSR700 as a potential export product for allied navies requiring shipborne UAS capabilities.

While the current contract covers six units, the French Military Planning Law (LPM) has outlined a medium-term requirement for 15 systems to fully equip the fleet. The program has a long development history, beginning as a risk-reduction study in 2017, followed by extensive sea trials aboard the frigate Provence and civilian vessels between 2020 and 2023.

AirPro News Analysis: The Rise of Manned-Unmanned Teaming

We view this order as a critical step in the operationalization of Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T). Beyond simple ISR, Airbus has been developing “HTeaming,” a concept unveiled in June 2025 that allows crews in manned helicopters, such as the NH90 or H160, to control the VSR700 directly from the cockpit.

This capability transforms the drone into a “loyal wingman” for naval aviation, allowing manned aircraft to send the VSR700 into contested or dangerous airspace to scout ahead, thereby preserving human life and high-value manned assets. Trials conducted with the Spanish Navy using an H135 helicopter suggest that this modular interoperability will be a key selling point for future export customers.

By securing a domestic launch customer in the French Navy, Airbus and Naval Group have validated the system’s maturity, likely accelerating interest from international buyers looking to expand their anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare envelopes without increasing their manned fleet size.

Sources

Sources: Airbus Press Release