Australia’s MQ-28 Enters a New Phase
Article by Nathan A
Images by Australian Defence Force
Boeing Defence Australia and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) have successfully completed Australia’s first autonomous air-to-air weapon engagement using an MQ-28A Ghost Bat Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). The Australian-designed and built aircraft successfully deployed an AIM-120 medium-range air-to-air missile against an uncrewed aerial target during testing at the Woomera Test Range in South Australia.
The engagement was conducted as part of a crewed–uncrewed teaming environment, with the MQ-28A operating in a “loyal wingman” role alongside a RAAF E-7A Wedgetail, E/A-18G Growler, and F/A-18F Super Hornet. The MQ-28A safely destroyed the airborne target during the live-fire trial.
“This is the first time an autonomous aircraft has conducted an air-to-air weapon engagement using an AIM-120 missile, demonstrating the maturity of the MQ-28 as a Collaborative Combat Aircraft,” said Amy List, Managing Director of Boeing Defence Australia. “This achievement highlights the operational advantages CCAs can provide to defence forces by increasing operational mass, enhancing data sharing for informed decision-making, and reducing risk to crewed aircraft and aircrew.”
Following the successful trial, the Australian Government announced an investment of approximately $1.4 billion to further develop the MQ-28 program and transition the aircraft toward operational service with the Australian Defence Force. The funding includes new contracts with Boeing Defence Australia for additional MQ-28 aircraft and continued development of future capability enhancements.
The announcement, combined with the successful live-fire demonstration, reinforces Australia’s position as a key contributor to the development of Collaborative Combat Aircraft technologies. As part of broader defence planning, the Albanese Government has indicated it expects to invest more than $10 billion in drone and uncrewed systems over the next decade, including significant funding for uncrewed aerial systems within the Defence Force.
“With Ghost Bat, the future of collaborative air combat is right here, right now,” Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said. “Today’s announcement highlights that Australia is at the forefront of developing Collaborative Combat Aircraft.”
“The Ghost Bat transforms a single fighter aircraft into a networked team—capable not only of surveillance, but also of engaging adversaries. This provides a critical additional layer of protection for our aviators, who remain our most valuable asset.”
“The MQ-28A program is also strengthening Australia’s sovereign defence industry, with more than 70 per cent of the investment remaining in Australia and supporting high-skill, high-technology jobs.”
