Manned-unmanned teaming: F-22 Raptor commands autonomous MQ-20 drone

The U.S. Air Force recently conducted a live flight demonstration at Edwards Air Force Base showcasing manned-unmanned teaming by pairing a piloted F-22 Raptor with General Atomics’ autonomous MQ-20 Avenger drone. During the exercise, the F-22 pilot issued real-time commands to the MQ-20 via advanced autonomy software and a secure tactical data link, directing the drone to adjust waypoints, perform combat air patrols, and engage simulated airborne threats. The MQ-20 operated with onboard sensors and autonomy, executing tasks while maintaining continuous tactical communication with the manned fighter. This demonstration highlights the Air Force’s strategy to integrate Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs) into frontline operations, enabling human pilots to retain command while delegating tactical tasks to autonomous systems. This flight builds on the Air Force’s broader autonomy efforts, including the recent validation of its Autonomy Government Reference Architecture (A-GRA) across multiple platforms, such as General Atomics’ YFQ-42A