Boeing’s MQ-28 Ghost Bat has achieved a technological first for autonomous aircraft, completing an air-to-air engagement using an AIM-120 missile.
In a recent test with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), the uncrewed platform flew alongside an E-7A Wedgetail and an F/A-18F Super Hornet to intercept a fighter-class target drone.
The E-7A monitored the Ghost Bat’s positioning and engagement safety, while the Super Hornet provided sensor coverage, sharing real-time target data across the trio of platforms.
After getting clearance from the Wedgetail, the MQ-28 quickly adjusted its position and engaged the target using Raytheon’s AMRAAM (Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile).
Boeing Defence Australia Managing Director Amy List said the achievement “delivered increased operational mass” while reducing costs and pilot risk, highlighting the drone’s role as a force multiplier.
Next-Gen Wingman
As Boeing’s collaborative combat aircraft, the Ghost Bat acts as extra eyes and ears for pilots, extending mission endurance and expanding the reach of aerial operations.
It previously logged over 150 flight hours in trials completed four months ahead of schedule, proving its ability to integrate seamlessly with fighter jets.
Equipped with advanced avionics and sensors, the drone’s open architecture lets it adapt to evolving threats, boosting situational awareness for military forces.
“It is a true example of speed-to-capability,” stated Boeing Phantom Works Vice President Colin Miller.
“The team implemented open architectures and an advanced digital ecosystem to develop the necessary hardware, software, and mission systems required to successfully integrate, test and employ the weapon in a live, operationally relevant scenario in under eight months.”
