General Atomics has revealed the official name of its YFQ-42A combat drone: Dark Merlin. The model was selected by the United States Air Force for the first phase of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, which envisions the use of unmanned aircraft as “loyal wingmen” to crewed fighters.
The Dark Merlin is one of two projects chosen for development and flight testing in this initial stage.
According to the company, the name references the merlin falcon, a small and aggressive bird known for surprise attacks and coordinated hunting.
The inspiration also aligns with the idea of advanced technology associated with “magic,” alluding to the character Merlin from Arthurian legends and the 1962 book Profiles of the Future.
For the manufacturer, the designation reflects the concept of a fast, agile aerial system designed for modern semi-autonomous combat.
The new nickname helps distinguish the model amid the program’s technical designations. The other competitor in the first phase is the YFQ-44A, developed by Anduril Industries and known as Fury.
Both aircraft are currently undergoing flight tests, while a decision on potential large-scale procurement will be made later by the Air Force.
Based on the modular Gambit family, the Dark Merlin has already entered production even before final procurement decisions have been made.
In addition, the United States Marine Corps announced that it will use the drone as a test platform in its own CCA program — a move that could pave the way for future operational acquisitions of the new “fighter drone.”
+ 10 facts that reveal why the B-21 could be the most lethal bomber ever created
Source: The War Zone | Photo: X @GenAtomics_ASI | This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
Taking inspiration from a nimble predator, GA-ASI announces #YFQ42A Dark Merlin. Read the news: https://t.co/Bt74bVOGRR#DarkMerlinUAS #UCAV pic.twitter.com/nhvBRtUn5Y
— General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc (GA-ASI) (@GenAtomics_ASI) February 23, 2026
