This article is based on an official press release from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and additional industry data.

GA-ASI YFQ-42A Completes Semi-Autonomous Flight Using Third-Party Software

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) has announced a significant technical achievement in the development of the U.S. Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. In early February 2026, the company successfully conducted a semi-autonomous flight of its YFQ-42A prototype, a critical contender for the Air Force’s future fleet of uncrewed “loyal wingmen.”

The flight, which lasted more than four hours, is particularly notable for its Software architecture. According to the company, the aircraft was controlled by “Sidekick” Collaborative Mission Autonomy software developed by Collins Aerospace, an RTX business. This integration demonstrates the viability of the Air Force’s “open architecture” strategy, where mission software from one vendor can successfully pilot an airframe built by another.

Validating the Open Architecture Vision

The primary objective of this flight test was to validate the Autonomy Government Reference Architecture (A-GRA). Historically, military aircraft have relied on proprietary software tightly coupled with the hardware, making upgrades difficult and locking the military into specific vendors. The CCA program aims to break this paradigm by decoupling the “brains” from the “body.”

During the mission, the YFQ-42A utilized the government-standard A-GRA to interface with the Collins Aerospace software. GA-ASI reports that the aircraft executed complex commands initiated by a ground operator but performed the actual flight maneuvers via onboard Automation.

David R. Alexander, President of GA-ASI, highlighted the importance of this collaboration in a statement:

“The integration of Sidekick with our YFQ-42A demonstrates our commitment to innovation and operational excellence… We are excited to collaborate with Collins to deliver enhanced autonomous mission solutions.”

Human-on-the-Loop Operations

The operational concept demonstrated during this flight is described as “human-on-the-loop.” Rather than a pilot remotely controlling the aircraft’s stick and rudder, a human operator at a Ground Station Console (GSC) issues high-level mission commands. The aircraft’s autonomy software then determines the necessary altitude, airspeed, navigation, and sensor adjustments to execute those orders.

Ryan Bunge, Vice President at Collins Aerospace, emphasized the speed at which this integration occurred:

“The rapid integration of Sidekick onto this General Atomics platform… underscores the strength and flexibility of our open systems approach.”

Strategic Context: The Race for Collaborative Combat Aircraft

This milestone comes at a pivotal moment for the CCA program. The U.S. Air Force intends to field a fleet of at least 1,000 uncrewed aircraft to fly alongside manned fighters like the F-35 and the forthcoming Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) platform. The program emphasizes “affordable mass,” with target unit costs estimated between $20.5 million and $27.5 million.

GA-ASI is currently competing against Anduril Industries for the Increment 1 production contract. While Anduril’s YFQ-44A “Fury” conducted its First-Flight in October 2025, GA-ASI is leveraging its extensive history with the MQ-20 Avenger and XQ-67A sensing station to demonstrate reliability and modularity.

AirPro News Analysis

The successful integration of Collins Aerospace software onto a General Atomics airframe is a major proof point for the Department of Defense’s acquisition strategy. By proving that third-party autonomy can drive the YFQ-42A, GA-ASI effectively de-risks the program for the Air Force.

This capability prevents “vendor lock,” allowing the Air Force to upgrade tactical software, effectively the aircraft’s tactical instincts, without needing to modify the physical airframe. If the software from one vendor outperforms another in simulation, the Air Force theoretically retains the flexibility to swap “apps” on the aircraft, ensuring the fleet remains adaptable to evolving threats without the long lead times associated with traditional hardware updates.

Future Outlook and Testing

Following this successful semi-autonomous flight, the testing schedule for the CCA program is expected to accelerate throughout 2026. The Air Force’s Experimental Operations Unit (EOU) at Nellis Air Force Base is slated to conduct advanced trials, which will likely involve joint flights pairing these uncrewed systems with manned fighters to test tactical coordination.

Additionally, the U.S. Marine Corps has selected the YFQ-42A to evaluate for its own MUX TACAIR program, further expanding the potential market for GA-ASI’s platform. A production decision for the CCA Increment 1 program is expected by the end of Fiscal Year 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the YFQ-42A?

The YFQ-42A is GA-ASI’s prototype for the U.S. Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. It is a stealthy, jet-powered uncrewed aircraft designed to operate alongside manned fighters.

What is A-GRA?

A-GRA stands for Autonomy Government Reference Architecture. It is a government-owned standard designed to allow software from different vendors to work on various hardware platforms, promoting competition and easier upgrades.

Who provides the software for the YFQ-42A?

While GA-ASI builds the airframe, the recent test flight utilized “Sidekick” mission autonomy software provided by Collins Aerospace (RTX), demonstrating the open architecture capability.

Sources

• General Atomics Aeronautical Systems

This article is based on an official press release from Ondas Holdings.

Ondas Holdings to Acquire Rotron Aero, Signaling Shift into Kinetic Defense Market

Ondas Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: ONDS) has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Rotron Aero, a United Kingdom-based specialist in advanced rotary engines and unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The Acquisitions represents a significant strategic pivot for Ondas, expanding its portfolio from primarily surveillance and data solutions into the “kinetic” defense sector, specifically targeting the market for loitering munitions and heavy-fuel propulsion systems.

According to the company’s announcement on February 2, 2026, the transaction will be structured as a combination of cash and stock. The deal is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval under the United Kingdom’s National Security and Investment (NSI) Act, which governs the acquisition of sensitive dual-use and military technologies.

The acquisition targets Rotron Aerospace Limited, founded by Gilo Cardozo, and is distinct from the U.S.-based component manufacturer AMETEK Rotron. By integrating Rotron’s proprietary propulsion technology, Ondas aims to secure a critical supply chain for heavy-fuel engines, a key requirement for military logistics, while adding autonomous attack capabilities to its fleet.

Strategic Rationale: Vertical Integration and Lethal Capabilities

Ondas Holdings described the move as a “vertical integration” play designed to reduce dependence on third-party vendors while entering the high-demand market for precision strike capabilities. The acquisition introduces two primary assets to the Ondas ecosystem: the Defendor loitering munition and a proprietary line of heavy-fuel rotary engines.

Entering the Loitering Munition Market

The addition of the Defendor system allows Ondas to compete in the “attritable warfare” sector, low-cost, expendable unmanned systems designed for one-way missions. This moves the company beyond Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) into direct combat support.

“Modern conflicts demand systems that can operate at range, persist over time, and execute missions without continuous human control.”

, Eric Brock, CEO of Ondas Holdings

Securing the Supply Chain

A critical component of the deal is Rotron’s expertise in heavy-fuel engines, which run on JP-8 or Jet-A1 fuel. These fuels are standard for military logistics, making the engines highly valuable for NATO and allied defense programs. By owning the engine manufacturer, Ondas mitigates supply chain risks often associated with high-performance drone propulsion.

About Rotron Aero

Headquartered in the United Kingdom, Rotron Aero was established in 2008 and has developed a reputation for high-power-to-weight ratio propulsion systems. The company’s technology portfolio includes:

• Heavy-Fuel Engines: Rotary engines designed for reliability in contested environments.
• Talon eVTOL: A vertical take-off and landing platform suitable for multi-role missions.
• Defendor: An autonomous loitering munition system.

Gilo Cardozo, Founder of Rotron, emphasized the synergy between the two companies in the official release.

“This marks a defining moment in Rotron’s journey… By combining our propulsion-led engineering… with Ondas’ autonomous systems architecture… we will gain the scale to deliver more capability, faster.”

, Gilo Cardozo, Founder of Rotron Aero

AirPro News Analysis

From Surveillance to Strike: This acquisition places Ondas in direct competition with established defense players like AeroVironment, maker of the Switchblade, and newer disruptors like Anduril Industries. The shift to “kinetic” systems suggests Ondas is responding to the rapid evolution of drone warfare observed in recent global conflicts, where the line between reconnaissance and strike capabilities has blurred.

Regulatory Hurdles: The requirement for approval under the UK’s National Security and Investment Act is not a trivial formality. As Rotron possesses sovereign UK defense capabilities, regulators will likely scrutinize the transfer of intellectual property to a US-based holding company. However, the deal also promises to establish a stronger physical foothold for Ondas in the UK and NATO markets, potentially opening doors to Ministry of Defence programs that require local manufacturing.

Financial Context: While specific financial terms were not disclosed in the press release, market data suggests Rotron is a specialized engineering firm rather than a mass manufacturer. This indicates the acquisition is likely an “acqui-hire” and IP play intended to bolster Ondas’ technical depth rather than immediately adding massive revenue volume.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Rotron Aero and AMETEK Rotron?
Rotron Aero (Rotron Aerospace Limited) is a UK-based company founded by Gilo Cardozo that specializes in drone engines and loitering munitions. AMETEK Rotron is a separate, US-based entity known for manufacturing cooling fans and blowers. Ondas is acquiring the UK-based Rotron Aero.

What is a “heavy-fuel” engine?
Heavy-fuel engines operate on kerosene-based fuels like JP-8 or Jet-A1, which are the standard fuels used by military aircraft and vehicles. Most commercial drones use gasoline or batteries, which creates logistical challenges in combat zones where gasoline is scarce and dangerous to transport.

When will the deal close?
The deal was announced on February 2, 2026. It is currently subject to regulatory review, including a standard assessment period under the UK NSI Act, which typically takes 30 working days but can be extended.

Sources: Ondas Holdings Press Release

This article is based on an official press release from ST Engineering and additional industry data regarding the A330 MRTT+ program.

ST Engineering and Airbus Expand Defense Ties with A330 MRTT+ Cabin Agreement

ST Engineering’s Commercial Aerospace business has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus Defence and Space to lead the cabin modification program for the new A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport Plus (A330 MRTT+). Announced on February 4, 2026, this agreement deepens the industrial cooperation between the Singapore-based engineering group and the European aerospace giant, extending their partnership beyond commercial freighter conversions into the specialized military sector.

According to the press release issued by ST Engineering, the company will serve as the lead integrator for the project. Their scope of work encompasses engineering design, certification, and the physical modification of the aircraft cabin to meet specific operational requirements. The project is designated for an undisclosed Airbus customer, marking a significant step in the rollout of the next-generation tanker platform.

Scope of the Partnership

Under the terms of the MoU, ST Engineering will leverage its extensive experience in complex aircraft interiors to deliver a bespoke solution for the A330 MRTT+. The company stated that the modification involves “multidisciplinary design skills” to integrate military-grade systems while adhering to certified civilian cabin standards.

Kevin Chow, Head of Aerostructures and Systems at ST Engineering, highlighted the strategic value of the deal in a company statement:

“This A330 MRTT+ cabin modification marks the latest milestone in our longstanding partnership with Airbus… We will build on our successful partnership in freighter conversion and tap on our extensive capabilities in integrated cabin interiors solutions to deliver a product that meets the operator’s exact specifications.”

This collaboration builds upon a robust existing relationship. ST Engineering and Airbus currently operate Elbe Flugzeugwerke (EFW), a joint venture that leads the global market in converting A330 and A320 passenger aircraft into freighters. This new agreement signals ST Engineering’s intent to capture more value in the defense maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) market.

Technical Profile: The A330 MRTT+

The aircraft at the center of this agreement, the A330 MRTT+, represents the modernization of the world’s most widely used non-U.S. aerial tanker. While the standard MRTT is based on the A330-200, the “Plus” variant utilizes the A330neo (A330-800) airframe.

According to technical data associated with the program launch, the A330 MRTT+ offers several performance enhancements over its predecessor:

• Engine Upgrade: Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, replacing the previous generation’s CF6 or Trent 700 options.
• Efficiency: The new engines and aerodynamic improvements contribute to a fuel burn reduction of approximately 8%.
• Capability: The aircraft features an increased Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) of 242 tonnes, allowing for greater fuel offload capacity or extended mission endurance.

AirPro News Analysis: Identifying the Customer

While ST Engineering’s official announcement refers only to “Airbus’s customer,” industry context strongly suggests the end user is the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF). In late 2025, the RTAF became the launch customer for the A330 MRTT+, placing an order that specifically included requirements for a VVIP cabin configuration and Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) capabilities.

The complexity of combining a luxury head-of-state suite with intensive care medical modules aligns with the “multidisciplinary” challenges cited by ST Engineering. If confirmed, this project would see the aircraft undergo military conversion at Airbus’s Getafe facility in Spain before receiving its specialized interior fit-out, with final delivery expected around 2029.

Strategic Implications

This agreement reinforces the dominance of the A330 MRTT platform, which currently holds a market share exceeding 90% for aerial refueling outside the United States. By securing ST Engineering as a partner for complex cabin customizations, Airbus ensures it can offer flexible, high-end interior solutions to government customers who require their tankers to double as executive transport or humanitarian relief vessels.

For ST Engineering, the deal validates its strategy of pivoting commercial aerospace expertise toward defense applications. The company has a long history of supporting the Republic of Singapore Air Force and is now effectively exporting that military-industrial capability to support Airbus’s global supply chain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the A330 MRTT and the MRTT+?
The standard MRTT is based on the A330-200, while the MRTT+ is based on the newer A330neo (A330-800). The “Plus” version features new Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, improved aerodynamics, and better fuel efficiency.

Who is the customer for this modified aircraft?
ST Engineering has not officially named the customer. However, market reports indicate it is likely the Royal Thai Air Force, which recently ordered an A330 MRTT+ with VVIP and MEDEVAC specifications.

What is ST Engineering’s role?
ST Engineering is responsible for the engineering design, certification, and physical modification of the aircraft’s cabin, ensuring it meets the specific operational needs of the customer.

Sources: ST Engineering Press Release, Airbus Defence and Space