The United States Air Force released the first image of the YFQ-44A Fury carrying an AIM-120 AMRAAM missile during weapons integration testing.
Developed by Anduril Industries, the drone conducted captive-carry evaluations with an inert version of the missile, marking a significant milestone in the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. The tests validate structural performance, aerodynamic compatibility, and safety prior to actual operational use.
The image, captured in California — possibly at Southern California Logistics Airport in Victorville — comes just months after the model’s first flight in October 2025. According to United States Air Force Chief of Staff General Ken Wilsbach, the process follows strict protocols applied across all aircraft development programs, ensuring safe separation and proper weapons integration.
The CCA is designed to operate alongside manned fighters in a “loyal wingman” concept, extending range, strike capability, and survivability in contested environments. The goal is to form an integrated network of systems capable of detecting threats, engaging targets, and protecting allied forces, while maintaining human control over firing decisions.
With over 150 operational units expected in the next five years — and potential to exceed one thousand aircraft — the program relies on open architecture and modular design to facilitate technological upgrades. In addition to the YFQ-44A, General Atomics is developing the YFQ-42A Dark Merlin, establishing a new generation of unmanned fighters that could reshape U.S. air strategy.
Source: The Aviationist | Photo: X @OfficialCSAF | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
We are moving with urgency & purpose to deliver game-changing capabilities to our warfighters. CCA inert captive carry testing is a deliberate step in our plan to build a more lethal & integrated @usairforce.https://t.co/S1zR1jMO1f pic.twitter.com/2OQDKd9A2n
— General Ken Wilsbach (@OfficialCSAF) February 24, 2026
