GA-ASI’s YFQ-42A Dark Merlin is one of several candidates to be the first U.S. Air Force Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). [Credit: GA-ASI]
Key Takeaways:
An experimental autonomous "loyal wingman" drone, the YFQ-42A Dark Merlin manufactured by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI), crashed during testing in the California desert.
The aircraft is a prototype for the U.S. Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, which aims to develop uncrewed drones to complement next-generation fighter jets.
Although no injuries occurred, GA-ASI has temporarily paused flight testing for the Dark Merlin as it investigates the cause of the mishap.
The crash presents a potential setback for GA-ASI in the highly competitive CCA program, where it is vying with other companies for significant production contracts.
An experimental aircraft developed to serve as an autonomous “loyal wingman” for next-generation U.S. Air Force fighter jets crashed in the California desert on Monday.
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI)—the manufacturer of the YFQ-42A Dark Merlin in question—said Monday that the aircraft “experienced a mishap” after taking off from a company-owned airport.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
