// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
MQ-28
The MQ-28 is an unmanned combat aircraft, also known as the Ghost Bat or Loyal Wingman, designed to fly alongside manned fighter jets. It acts as an autonomous or semi-autonomous partner to provide additional capabilities like reconnaissance, electronic warfare, or even to carry weapons.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
The Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat (formerly Loyal Wingman) is an uncrewed combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) developed by Boeing Australia for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), intended for autonomous or semi-autonomous operations to augment manned fighter aircraft capabilities for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), electronic warfare, and potential strike missions as an attritable force multiplier in human-machine teaming concepts.
BACKGROUND
The Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat, previously known as the Boeing Airpower Teaming System (ATS), is a stealth, multirole, unmanned combat aerial vehicle under development by Boeing Australia for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). It is designed as a force multiplier aircraft capable of flying alongside crewed aircraft for support as part of an integrated system including space-based capabilities, and performing autonomous missions independently using artificial intelligence.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Ghost Bat
- Loyal Wingman
- Boeing Loyal Wingman
- UCAV
- Autonomous Fighter Wingman
- Airpower Teaming System
USAGE NOTE
The MQ-28 represents a significant advancement in integrated air combat, exploring the future of manned-unmanned teaming in contested environments.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to MQ-28.
The primary developer and manufacturer of the MQ-28 Ghost Bat (formerly Loyal Wingman) unmanned aircraft system for the Royal Australian Air Force.
The key partner and launch customer for the MQ-28 Ghost Bat program, actively involved in co-development, testing, and operational concept development for the platform.
Funds and oversees the MQ-28 Ghost Bat program, working in collaboration with Boeing Australia and the RAAF to advance sovereign defense capabilities.
An advanced research and development division within Boeing, responsible for developing innovative prototypes and experimental aircraft, including key technologies integrated into the MQ-28.
While not directly developing the MQ-28, GA-ASI develops autonomous combat aircraft and loyal wingman concepts (like Gambit) that share similar technological goals and operational roles.
Develops a range of affordable, high-performance unmanned aerial systems, including the XQ-58A Valkyrie, a loyal wingman platform with similar operational objectives to the MQ-28.
Known for advanced development programs, Skunk Works is exploring next-generation air dominance (NGAD) and collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) concepts, which are directly related to the autonomous loyal wingman capabilities exemplified by the MQ-28.