Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat Successfully Fires Air-to-Air Missile in Historic Autonomous Test

On December 9, 2025, Boeing and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) marked a significant milestone in the evolution of autonomous aerial warfare. Operating at the Woomera Test Range in South Australia, an MQ-28 Ghost Bat “loyal wingman” drone successfully fired a live AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM), destroying a high-performance target drone.

According to Boeing, this event represents the first time an autonomous Military-Aircraft has engaged an aerial target with this specific class of weapon while operating within a “force integrated” team. The mission validated the operational concept of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), where uncrewed systems work in tandem with manned fighters and command aircraft to extend lethality and survivability.

The “Kill Chain” Architecture

The test was not a solo effort by the Drones but rather a demonstration of advanced “sensor-to-shooter” data fusion. The mission involved a coordinated team of assets:

• MQ-28 Ghost Bat: The uncrewed carrier of the weapon.
• E-7A Wedgetail: An Airborne Early Warning & Control aircraft that maintained “custodianship” of the drone.
• F/A-18F Super Hornet: A manned fighter that provided sensor coverage and target tracking data.

In this scenario, the F/A-18F Super Hornet tracked the target,a Phoenix Jet Uncrewed Aerial Target designed to simulate enemy fighters,and shared that data instantly with the MQ-28 and the E-7A. While the Ghost Bat maneuvered autonomously, the final authority to launch the missile remained with a human operator aboard the E-7A Wedgetail, adhering to military ethics regarding human-in-the-loop control for lethal force.

“The Ghost Bat transforms a single fighter jet into a formidable team,capable not only of surveillance but also of engaging adversaries. This delivers a vital layer of protection for our aviators who remain our most valuable asset.”

, Pat Conroy, Australian Minister for Defence Industry

Technical Evolution: Block 1 vs. Block 2

The aircraft utilized in the December 9 test was a “Block 1” variant of the MQ-28. Technical analysis of the airframe highlights specific aerodynamic features relevant to this stage of development. The Block 1 features a “dogtooth” leading edge on the wing, a design choice that creates a vortex over the wing at high angles of attack to improve stability during slow, tight maneuvers.

However, Boeing is already advancing toward “Block 2” operational assets. Future iterations are expected to remove the dogtooth design in favor of a smoother profile. This evolution suggests a prioritization of reduced radar cross-section (stealth) and aerodynamic drag reduction to increase range, moving away from the extreme low-speed maneuverability required in traditional dogfighting.

“This is the first time an autonomous aircraft has completed an air-to-air weapon engagement with an AIM-120 missile, establishing the MQ-28 as a mature combat capable CCA.”

, Amy List, Managing Director, Boeing Defence Australia

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Strategic Implications: The Era of “Affordable Mass”

The successful firing of an AMRAAM by an uncrewed system underscores the strategic shift toward “affordable mass.” In a high-intensity conflict, air forces face the challenge of risking expensive manned assets against dense air defense networks. The MQ-28 program aims to solve this by deploying lower-cost drones capable of absorbing risk.

Industry estimates place the cost of an MQ-28 unit between $8 million and $10 million USD. By comparison, a manned F-35A Lightning II costs approximately $80 million to $100 million. This cost differential allows commanders to deploy swarms of CCAs to penetrate contested airspace without risking a pilot or a critical financial asset.

AirPro News Analysis

While this test is a triumph for Australian sovereign capability,marking the first military combat aircraft designed and manufactured in Australia in over 50 years,it also sends a signal to the global market. The United States Navy has previously expressed strong interest in the MQ-28 for its own carrier-based requirements, targeting a unit cost under $15 million.

Furthermore, the test places the MQ-28 in direct competition with other emerging loyal wingman programs. Turkey’s Bayraktar Kızılelma has similarly conducted live missile firings, and China has displayed the FH-97A, which bears a striking visual resemblance to the Ghost Bat. The successful integration of the AIM-120, a standard NATO weapon, positions the MQ-28 as a highly compatible option for Western allies.

“It is a true example of speed-to-capability… The team implemented open architectures… to successfully integrate, test and employ the weapon in a live, operationally relevant scenario in under eight months.”

, Colin Miller, VP for Phantom Works, Boeing

Sources

• Boeing Media Room
• Australian Department of Defence
• Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI)

This article is based on an official press release from Babcock International.

Babcock France Secures L-39 Jet Contract to Support French Test Pilot School

Babcock France has officially strengthened its partnership with the French Ministry of Armed Forces through a new contract to support the École du Personnel Navigant d’Essais et de Réception (EPNER), the French test pilot school. According to a company press release, the agreement involves the deployment of a fleet of L-39 Albatros jet trainers to assist the Direction Générale de l’Armement, Essais en Vol (DGA EV).

The contract marks a significant expansion of Babcock’s operational footprint in the French defense sector. While the company has previously secured major contracts for basic and advanced turboprop training, this agreement represents its first operation of the L-39 jet platform for the French government. The operations will be centered at a facility in Dijon, utilizing a fleet of 11 Military-Aircraft acquired specifically for this purpose.

Operational Scope and Capabilities

Under the terms of the new deal, Babcock will provide a comprehensive service that includes the provision and maintenance of the aircraft. The primary mission of the L-39 fleet is to support the training of test pilots, flight test engineers, and flight test technicians. These trainees will utilize the jets to assess flight characteristics and performance in complex, realistic scenarios.

Beyond standard test pilot curriculum support, the press release highlights several other critical roles for the fleet:

• “Red Air” Support: The L-39s will act as aggressor aircraft, simulating aerial threats during training missions for French military units.
• Technical Training: The aircraft will serve as platforms for training and refresher courses for DGA EV mechanics.
• Currency Flights: The fleet will facilitate “release flights” to help EPNER instructors and test pilots maintain their flight qualifications.

Pierre Basquin, CEO of Babcock France, emphasized the strategic nature of the agreement in a statement accompanying the announcement:

“The partnership reflects Babcock’s commitment to supporting the French armed forces in its critical missions by providing high-performance aerial assets tailored to the demands of training and testing. The contract is the first involving our L-39 aircraft and paves the way for further opportunities, particularly in operational Training and the training of international pilots.”

Pierre Basquin, CEO of Babcock France

Fleet History and Specifications

The 11 L-39C Albatros aircraft utilized in this contract carry a unique pedigree. According to background information regarding the acquisition, Babcock purchased these jets in December 2024 from Apache Aviation. Prior to their military service role, these specific airframes were operated by the Breitling Jet Team, the world’s largest civilian aerobatic display team.

The L-39 Albatros is a Czech-made high-performance jet trainer known for its reliability and cost-effectiveness. It serves as a bridge between turboprop trainers and high-performance frontline fighters like the Rafale, offering a jet environment at a lower operating cost than supersonic platforms.

AirPro News Analysis: Consolidating French Training

This latest contract solidifies Babcock’s position as a dominant partner in the modernization of French military pilot training. The L-39 deal complements a series of major wins for the company in recent years, creating a near-monopoly on outsourced pilot training platforms in France.

Babcock’s portfolio in the region now includes:

• FOMEDEC (2017): Providing PC-21 aircraft for advanced fighter pilot training at Cognac Air Base.
• MENTOR 1 (2021): An expansion of the PC-21 fleet to increase training capacity.
• MENTOR 2 (January 2025): A 17-year contract to replace the basic training fleet with 22 new Pilatus PC-7 MKX aircraft.

By securing the EPNER contract, Babcock has effectively closed the loop, providing platforms for basic training, advanced turboprop training, and now jet-based test pilot and aggressor support. This aligns with the broader “Project MENTOR” initiative by the French Air and Space Force, which seeks to modernize training pipelines and reduce costs by outsourcing platform availability while retaining military instruction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is EPNER?

EPNER (École du Personnel Navigant d’Essais et de Réception) is the French test pilot school responsible for training test pilots, flight test engineers, and technicians for the French military and DGA.

Where will the aircraft be based?

The operations will be based at a former military site in Dijon, France.

What is “Red Air”?

“Red Air” refers to adversary support, where aircraft act as enemy targets during training exercises to help friendly forces practice air-to-air combat tactics.

Sources

• Babcock International

This article summarizes reporting by Reuters, and publicly available elements/data from related industry releases.

Australia Set to Finalize A$1 Billion Contract for Operational “Ghost Bat” Fleet

The Australian government is poised to execute a historic advancement in its sovereign air defense capabilities. According to reporting by Reuters, Australia will sign a contract valued at approximately A$1 billion (US$663 million) with Boeing Defence Australia to acquire an initial fleet of six Block 2 MQ-28A Ghost Bat drones. This agreement signals a major transition for the program, moving the platform from a developmental prototype into an “operational test asset” capable of combat scenarios.

The deal, expected to be formally announced on Tuesday, December 9, represents a significant deepening of the relationship between the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and Boeing. As the first military combat aircraft designed and manufactured in Australia in over 50 years, the Ghost Bat serves as the centerpiece of the nation’s strategy to develop autonomous systems that can operate alongside crewed assets.

From Prototype to “War-Fighting” Platform

While previous iterations of the MQ-28A focused on proving flight physics and basic airworthiness, the new contract specifically targets the “Block 2” variant. Reports indicate that these airframes are not merely experimental; they are designed to be operationally relevant. The investment is part of a broader A$10 billion commitment by the Australian government to develop drone and autonomous systems over the next decade.

According to details emerging alongside the Reuters report, the production of these aircraft will take place at a new facility in Toowoomba, Queensland, with component manufacturing supported in Melbourne. This distributed manufacturing approach underscores the government’s intent to solidify a domestic defense supply chain.

In a statement highlighted by industry media, Australian Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy emphasized the program’s progress:

This platform is hitting every major milestone… it is the cutting edge of air power.

Pat Conroy, Australian Minister for Defence Industry

Technical Evolution: The Block 2 Advantage

The transition to Block 2 involves substantial technical upgrades designed to make the Ghost Bat survivable in modern high-threat environments. Unlike the Block 1 “developmental test asset,” the Block 2 is engineered as an “operational test asset.”

Based on available technical specifications, the Block 2 variant includes several critical enhancements:

• Advanced Navigation: The integration of a new GPS/Inertial Navigation System (INS) hardened for “denied environments,” allowing the aircraft to operate where adversaries are actively jamming satellite signals.
• Stealth and Aerodynamics: A redesigned wing for improved range and maneuverability, coupled with operational-grade stealth coatings to reduce the aircraft’s radar cross-section.
• Mission Systems: A focus on Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) and Electronic Warfare (EW) payloads, utilizing the airframe’s modular nose system.

The “Loyal Wingman” concept relies on these drones acting as force multipliers. They are designed to fly in formation with high-value crewed aircraft, such as the F-35A Lightning II or the E-7A Wedgetail, effectively extending the sensor range and defensive perimeter of the human pilots.

The Ghost Bat is designed to act as a force multiplier, providing the Royal Australian Air Force with affordable mass and flexibility…

Boeing Australia Spokesperson

AirPro News Analysis: The Strategic Value of “Affordable Mass”

The confirmation of the Block 2 contract validates a shift in global air power doctrine toward “affordable mass.” Modern crewed fighters are prohibitively expensive and slow to manufacture. By procuring the Ghost Bat at roughly 10% of the cost of a manned fighter, the RAAF can deploy greater numbers of sensors and effectors without the linear cost increase associated with traditional jets.

Furthermore, the specific mention of navigation systems for “denied environments” suggests that the RAAF is preparing for conflicts where electromagnetic dominance is contested. This capability is essential for the Ghost Bat to serve as a forward-deployed sensor node, operating inside threat rings that would be too dangerous for crewed assets like the E-7A Wedgetail.

Global Implications and US Interest

While the Ghost Bat is an Australian program, its development is being closely monitored by the United States. The U.S. Department of Defense is utilizing the Ghost Bat technology as a feeder for its own Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. The U.S. Navy has also expressed strong interest in the platform’s autonomy architecture and modular payload design.

This bi-national interest suggests that the A$1 billion investment may eventually yield export opportunities, positioning Australia as a key exporter of advanced autonomous military technology. The RAAF aims to have these drones operationally deployable within the next few years, with potential armed variants to follow the initial ISR-focused models.

Sources

• Reuters