Defense & Military
USAF and Netherlands Formalize Partnership on Collaborative Combat Aircraft
The USAF and Netherlands formalize a partnership to develop prototype Collaborative Combat Aircraft, advancing autonomous drone wingmen integration.
This article is based on an official press release from the U.S. Department of the Air Force.
USAF and Netherlands Formalize Landmark Partnership on Collaborative Combat Aircraft
On April 23, 2026, the U.S. Department of the Air Force and the Netherlands Ministry of Defence officially formalized a strategic partnership to acquire and develop prototype Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). According to the official press release, this agreement cements the Netherlands as a critical international partner in the U.S. military’s rapid advancement toward autonomous, uncrewed “drone wingmen.” We are seeing a concerted effort by allied forces to prioritize seamless data sharing and interoperability for future combined coalition operations.
The core objective of this bilateral agreement is to bring “greater affordable mass” to allied forces, utilizing autonomous aircraft to deter and defeat potential adversaries. A central component of the formalized partnership involves integrating Dutch military personnel directly with the U.S. Air Force’s Experimental Operations Unit (EOU) at Nellis Air-Forces Base in Nevada. There, allied operators will co-develop human-machine teaming tactics alongside their American counterparts.
By aligning development strategies early in the acquisition process, the U.S. and the Netherlands aim to establish a tight feedback loop between warfighters and developers. This approach, detailed in the U.S. Air Force announcement, allows for the continuous refinement of mission autonomy in realistic, combined-force scenarios before the aircraft are fully fielded.
The Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) Program
Increment 1 Progress and “Affordable Mass”
The Collaborative Combat Aircraft program is a multi-billion-dollar U.S. Air Force initiative designed to field semi-autonomous, uncrewed aircraft that will fly alongside crewed fifth- and sixth-generation fighters, such as the F-35A and the Next Generation Air Dominance fighter. According to research reports on the program’s background, the U.S. Air Force aims to field at least 1,000 CCAs by 2030. Because these drones are significantly cheaper and faster to produce than traditional crewed fighters, they offer a pathway to rapidly expand fleet size and project airpower in highly contested environments.
The program is currently advancing through its first phase, known as “Increment 1.” In 2024, the U.S. Air Force selected two defense contractors to build production-representative prototypes. General Atomics is developing the YFQ-42A “Dark Merlin,” which completed its first-flight in August 2025. Concurrently, Anduril Industries is developing the YFQ-44A “Fury,” which achieved its first flight in October 2025.
A major technological milestone was reached in February 2026, when the U.S. Air Force successfully integrated government-owned autonomous software into both the YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A. Utilizing the Autonomy Government Reference Architecture (A-GRA), the military proved that the drones’ mission software can be decoupled from their hardware. This validates the open-architecture approach that is heavily emphasized in the new U.S.-Netherlands agreement.
The Netherlands’ Strategic Role
First European Partner in the CCA Initiative
The Netherlands holds the distinction of being the first European air force to formally join the U.S. CCA initiative. The groundwork for this formalization was established on October 15, 2025, when Dutch State Secretary for Defense Gijs Tuinman signed a Letter of Intent in Washington, D.C. The Royal Netherlands Air Force intends to utilize these autonomous drones to support its existing fleet of F-35As, acting as force multipliers that can extend sensor ranges, carry additional munitions, and execute high-risk missions over enemy territory.
Furthermore, the partnership is expected to boost the European defense industrial base. As part of the Netherlands’ Defense Strategy for Industry and Innovation, Dutch defense manufacturer VDL Defentec was selected to partner with General Atomics to build drone components locally.
Integration at the Experimental Operations Unit
Nellis Air Force Base Operations
The April 2026 agreement specifically highlights that Dutch personnel will embed with the Experimental Operations Unit (EOU) at Nellis Air Force Base. Activated as a fully operational squadron on June 5, 2025, under the 53rd Wing, the EOU serves as the primary proving ground for human-machine teaming. The unit utilizes the Virtual Warfare Center and Joint Integrated Test and Training Center to run realistic simulations, which are then followed by live-fly experiments.
By placing Dutch personnel at the EOU, the allied nations are ensuring that their pilots learn how to command and operate alongside autonomous wingmen simultaneously, effectively preventing a future interoperability gap.
“The future fight will be fought with allies and partners. By aligning our approaches early, we ensure interoperability and shared advantage in the era of human-machine teaming.”
“CCA will fundamentally change how we project airpower. Working with trusted allies allows us to field these capabilities more effectively. The collaboration on open architecture based autonomous platforms is critical to ensuring our forces are interoperable and ready for combined operations.”
“Our experimental operations will ensure that CCA are immediately viable as a credible combat capability that increases Joint Force survivability and lethality.”
AirPro News analysis
At AirPro News, we view this formalized agreement as a significant paradigm shift in coalition warfare. Historically, the United States has developed advanced military technology, such as stealth capabilities, domestically, only exporting it to allied nations years after initial fielding. The CCA program upends this model by bringing trusted allies like the Netherlands into the experimental and tactical development phases before the aircraft are fully operational.
Furthermore, the emphasis on a “platform-agnostic, open architecture” indicates a strategic pivot toward software over hardware. Because the autonomous “brain” is decoupled from the airframe, allied nations could potentially manufacture their own domestic drone hardware while utilizing a shared, interoperable software system. As adversaries continue to develop advanced anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) networks, this strategy of deterrence through affordable, lethal mass represents the new blueprint for 21st-century NATO airpower.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA)?
A CCA is a semi-autonomous, uncrewed military drone designed to fly alongside and support crewed fighter jets, such as the F-35. They act as force multipliers by carrying extra weapons, extending sensor ranges, and performing high-risk maneuvers.
Why is the Netherlands partnering with the U.S. Air Force?
The Netherlands aims to integrate CCAs with its own F-35A fleet. By partnering early, Dutch forces can co-develop tactics, ensure their systems are fully interoperable with U.S. forces, and boost their domestic defense industry through manufacturing partnerships.
When will the CCA program be operational?
The U.S. Air Force has stated a goal of fielding at least 1,000 Collaborative Combat Aircraft by the year 2030, with prototype testing and software integration currently underway at Nellis Air Force Base.
Sources:
Photo Credit: US Air Force
Defense & Military
Netherlands Signs Intent to Procure Saab GlobalEye AEW&C
Netherlands and Sweden sign a Letter of Intent for a Dutch Saab GlobalEye aircraft, with delivery expected in 2031.
The Netherlands Ministry of Defence and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) signed a Letter of Intent on September 10, 2026, for the Dutch procurement of a Saab GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft. The agreement establishes a framework for the Netherlands to build an independent long-range surveillance capability while contributing to a shared operational pool with the Swedish Air Force.
In a press release issued on September 10, 2026, Saab AB confirmed the agreement, noting that a formal contract and firm order have not yet been finalized. The procurement aligns with a broader North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) initiative to replace the alliance’s aging Boeing E-3A Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) fleet, which is scheduled for retirement in 2035.
Transitioning from the E-3A Sentry to GlobalEye
The Dutch military currently relies on the NATO E-3A Sentry fleet for airborne surveillance. The acquisition of a dedicated GlobalEye will allow the Netherlands to operate more independently. According to the Netherlands Ministry of Defence, Dutch crews are scheduled to begin training on Swedish GlobalEye aircraft in 2028, with the Delivery of the Dutch aircraft expected in 2031.
The Dutch aircraft will join a shared pool with three Swedish GlobalEye aircraft. Swedish Minister for Defence Pål Jonson stated that the agreement deepens defense cooperation between the two nations, allowing them to take on greater responsibility for collective European defense.
The GlobalEye system utilizes a Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet airframe equipped with Saab’s Erieye Extended Range (ER) active electronically scanned array (AESA) Radar-Systems. The system is designed to track air, maritime, and land targets at extended ranges.
Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, highlighted the strategic value of the platform for the region:
“The system will provide enhanced situational awareness and early warning capabilities across multiple domains, while also strengthening NATO’s ability to operate in an increasingly complex security environment. GlobalEye will enable the Netherlands to detect threats earlier, respond faster, and strengthen both national and collective defence.”
NATO’s shifting airborne surveillance strategy
The Dutch Letter of Intent follows a July 7, 2026, agreement among 11 NATO allies, including the Netherlands and Sweden, to jointly procure up to 10 GlobalEye aircraft. This joint procurement is intended to replace the 14 Boeing E-3A Sentry aircraft that have been in service since 1982.
The selection of the Saab GlobalEye represents a pivot in European defense procurement. In November 2025, European NATO partners canceled plans to acquire the Boeing E-7A Wedgetail. The cancellation occurred after the United States Air Force removed the E-7A from its fiscal 2026 spending plan, prompting European nations to prioritize investment in European aerospace industry solutions.
AirPro News analysis
We view the Dutch commitment to the Saab GlobalEye as a critical step in solidifying Europe’s defense industrial base. The collapse of the Boeing E-7A Wedgetail procurement for European NATO members created a vacuum that Saab has successfully filled. By establishing a shared pool of AEW&C assets between the Netherlands and Sweden, European Air-Forces are moving toward a more integrated, interoperable surveillance network. This model reduces the financial burden on individual nations while maintaining the continuous airborne early warning coverage required in the current geopolitical environment.
Sources: Saab
Photo Credit: Saab
Defense & Military
Kawasaki Heavy Industries and EdgeCortix Sign AI Defense Deal
Kawasaki Heavy Industries and EdgeCortix ink a multi-year deal to develop edge AI systems for aerial defense platforms.
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. and EdgeCortix Inc. have signed a multi-year teaming agreement valued at several million dollars to develop next-generation AI systems for aerial defense platforms. Announced on September 8, 2026, the partnership aims to embed low-latency, energy-efficient AI computing directly onto aerospace mission systems.
According to a press release issued by EdgeCortix, the initial program scope will run from 2026 to 2028. The collaboration focuses on enabling real-time sensor fusion, object recognition, and threat assessment at the point of data generation, reducing the reliance on tactical data links in contested airspace.
Integrating AI into constrained aerospace environments
The joint development targets a critical challenge in modern aerial defense: processing massive amounts of sensor data in environments with strict power and thermal limitations. By processing data at the edge, the systems allow aircraft and uncrewed platforms to operate effectively even when communication networks are bandwidth-constrained or degraded by electronic warfare.
The program will integrate EdgeCortix’s proprietary technology stack alongside the systems engineering expertise of the Defense & Aerospace Business Division at Kawasaki Heavy Industries. The hardware and software integration includes the EdgeCortix SAKURA-II artificial intelligence coprocessor, the MERA compiler and software framework, and the company’s Dynamic Neural Accelerator architecture.
“Next-generation aerial defense platforms will require substantial AI computing capability within tightly constrained power, thermal and operational envelopes,” said Dr. Sakyasingha Dasgupta, Founder and CEO of EdgeCortix Inc. “By combining Kawasaki’s deep aerospace and systems engineering expertise with our chiplet-based AI architecture and MERA software platform, we intend to accelerate the development of intelligent, adaptive and energy-efficient mission systems.”
Recent validations and program timeline
The initial phase of the strategic program encompasses technology development, feasibility studies, system integration, and the creation of prototype platforms. The agreement represents a significant commercial milestone for the Kanagawa, Japan-based AI firm, expanding its footprint in the defense sector.
EdgeCortix enters the Kawasaki Heavy Industries partnership following a series of successful technology validations by United States government entities. On June 30, 2026, the company received a Success Memorandum from the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) after demonstrating the SAKURA-II platform in flight with the U.S. Air Force. Earlier in the year, on January 6, 2026, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) validated the same accelerator for radiation resiliency, clearing the hardware for potential use in orbital and lunar missions.
AirPro News analysis
We view this teaming agreement as a strong indicator of the aerospace industry’s shift toward edge computing. As aerial platforms generate increasingly unmanageable volumes of high-fidelity sensor data, transmitting that information back to ground stations or command aircraft for processing introduces latency and exposes tactical networks to interception or jamming.
By partnering with a specialized edge AI firm rather than relying solely on traditional defense prime contractors for computing architecture, Kawasaki Heavy Industries is positioning itself to field autonomous and semi-autonomous systems capable of localized, real-time decision making. The recent validations of EdgeCortix hardware by the U.S. Air Force and NASA likely provided the technical de-risking necessary for Kawasaki to commit to a multi-year integration program.
Sources: EdgeCortix Inc.
Photo Credit: EdgeCortix Inc.
Defense & Military
Sikorsky VH-92A Patriot Completes Marine One Fleet Replacement
The USMC accepted the final VH-92A Patriot in August 2024, completing a $1.24B presidential helicopter program.
Lockheed Martin has formally highlighted the operational transition of the presidential helicopters fleet to the Sikorsky VH-92A Patriot, marking the culmination of a procurement program that delivered its final aircraft to the United States Marine Corps in August 2024.
In a company feature published on September 10, 2026, the manufacturers detailed the legacy and capabilities of the new platform, which replaces the aging Sikorsky VH-3D Sea King and Sikorsky VH-60N White Hawk fleets. The transition ensures Sikorsky continues its 67-year history of providing transport for the President of the United States, a mission that began in 1957.
Fleet modernization and Delivery completion
The United States Marine Corps (USMC) formally accepted the 23rd and final VH-92A Patriot on August 19, 2024. The aircraft are operated by Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1), the unit responsible for executive transport.
The procurement stems from a $1.24 billion contracts awarded by the U.S. Navy in May 2014 to develop and build the next-generation Marine One fleet. Following the final delivery, Lieutenant General Bradford Gering, Deputy Commandant for Aviation, stated the milestone represented a new chapter in the history of Marines providing presidential transport. He noted the aircraft brings increased capabilities for the mission of supporting the Commander-in-Chief globally.
Richard Benton, Sikorsky Vice President and General Manager, emphasized the manufacturer’s ability to deliver helicopters that will support presidential missions well into the future.
Infrastructure adaptations at the White House
The introduction of the VH-92A Patriot necessitated physical changes to the White House grounds. In August 2026, the White House confirmed the construction of a permanent helipad on the South Lawn.
According to reporting by The Guardian, the new helicopter is larger and more powerful than its predecessors. During testing and early operations, the aircraft’s downward-directed exhaust scorched the historic grass lawn, prompting the need for a hardened landing surface.
The Aviationist reported that the new helipad is constructed from four-inch-thick Californian granite and features the Presidential seal. The reinforced surface is designed to withstand the increased weight and exhaust heat of the VH-92A, as well as other heavy rotorcraft such as the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey.
During an August 19, 2026 tour of the construction site, President Donald Trump signed a piece of the stonework. Speaking on the capabilities of the new infrastructure, the President stated:
“This is a helipad at the highest level. It can land any helicopter in the world, no matter how big, no matter how powerful, no matter how strong.”
AirPro News analysis
The transition to the Sikorsky VH-92A Patriot represents a necessary modernization of the executive transport fleet, but the required infrastructure modifications highlight the operational trade-offs inherent in fielding heavier, more powerful rotorcraft. While multiple sources, including the President, have stated that Sikorsky is funding the estimated $5 million to $6 million helipad project, we note that the exact financial breakdown remains unverified by official corporate filings. The necessity of a permanent granite landing zone underscores how aircraft procurement decisions can dictate downstream facility requirements, even at highly restricted and historic locations like the White House.
Sources: Lockheed Martin
Photo Credit: Lockheed Martin
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