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US Air Force selects F-22 Raptor as first fighter jet to command autonomous drones in combat operations

On June 27, 2025, the US Air Force approved a new modification program to enable its fifth-generation F-22 Raptor stealth fighters to control Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), commonly known as drone wingmen. As outlined in its Fiscal Year 2026 budget justification, this new initiative, named the Crewed Platform Integration (CPI) program, allocates $15.048 million for a first phase procurement, installation, training, and support effort. This effort includes acquiring and installing cockpit kits comprised of tablets, communication cables, and associated system integration materials. The program is classified under ID Code B, denoting it as not yet service-ready. Read full defense news at this link...

This kit is expected to increase the combat flexibility and reach of the F-22 Raptor in contested environments by allowing it to deploy and command aerial drones for tasks such as electronic warfare, reconnaissance, or strike missions. (Picture source: US Air Force)



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