Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat Joins Valiant Shield 2026 Flights as USAF Tests a 3rd CCA

3 articles · Updated · Air & Space Forces Magazine · Jun 26

PACAF confirmed Boeing’s MQ-28 Ghost Bat is flying alongside manned aircraft in Exercise Valiant Shield 2026, giving the U.S. Air Force a Pacific test of human-machine teaming.
The drone is being used for offensive and defensive counter-air missions, though PACAF withheld which aircraft it is paired with, citing operational security.
Its appearance is notable because the Air Force has already chosen two other Collaborative Combat Aircraft designs; operators previously flew the YFQ-44 in an April exercise at Edwards.
Developed with the Royal Australian Air Force, the MQ-28 offers a partner-built option that PACAF said will help shape U.S. concepts for autonomous operations, employment and sustainment.
The Ghost Bat debuted in 2021 and is expected to enter service in 2028, slightly ahead of a U.S. CCA program that still lacks a firm operational timeline.