Woomera, South Australia, June 16, 2025 – Boeing and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) have successfully carried out their first air-to-air mission involving two MQ-28 Ghost Bat drones and a digitally simulated aircraft, all controlled by an airborne E-7A Wedgetail.
The demonstration featured a single pilot aboard the E-7A Wedgetail simultaneously operating two MQ-28 drones, which flew in formation ahead of the Wedgetail to provide escort.
Glen Ferguson, Global Program Director for the MQ-28, stated that the demonstration validated the strengths of multiple system integrations and open system architecture. He emphasized that this marked a critical first step toward fully integrating mission-deployable software and communications systems into the E-7A Wedgetail.
Ferguson further noted that the demonstration not only confirmed core elements of the MQ-28 operational concept but also showed how Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) can expand and enhance the role of the E-7A to meet future force requirements. He described the event as another clear milestone demonstrating the maturity of the MQ-28 program.
Australian Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy praised the achievement, stating that the Ghost Bat, equipped with advanced sensors akin to having hundreds of eyes in the sky, holds the potential to transform a single fighter into the equivalent of a full squadron.
The demonstration software was co-developed and implemented by Boeing Defense Australia, the Australian Defence Science and Technology Group, and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratories.
Adam Tsacoumangos, Air Dominance Program Director at Boeing Phantom Works, commented that this achievement was the result of collaborative efforts among governments, defense industries, and global partners.
The event is part of a series of demonstrations being conducted in 2025 using RAAF assets, collectively known as Capability Demonstration 2025 (CD25).
CD25 aims to showcase the operational effectiveness of the MQ-28 and how CCA platforms can be integrated with and support the RAAF’s manned forces.
Future demonstrations are planned to include coordinated operations with other assets such as the F/A-18F and F-35.
Boeing is a leading global aerospace company and one of the largest exporters in the United States. The company designs, manufactures, and services commercial aircraft, defense systems, space technology, and security platforms for customers in over 150 countries. Through its global supply chain, Boeing collaborates with talent worldwide to create economic opportunities and enhance sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture built on the core values of safety, quality, and integrity.
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