Anduril's YFQ-44A nick named "Fury" unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV was unveiled by US Dept of Defence. The YFQ-44A alon...
Anduril's YFQ-44A nick named "Fury" unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV was unveiled by US Dept of Defence.
The YFQ-44A along with General Atomics YF-42A won the Increment 1 phase of US Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, intended to develop an UCAV to augment crewed fighter aircraft such as the F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning and future aircrafts.
The ground testing evaluations at Costa Mesa, are centered on propulsion systems, onboard electronics, autonomous functionality, and ground control systems. Insights from this stage will validate system performance, shape design improvements, and pave the way for initial flight trials later in the year.
The CCA effort supports the Air Force’s broader vision of scalable force design and manned-unmanned teaming. These semi-autonomous aircraft are intended to complement piloted jets by increasing reach, survivability, and strike capability in highly contested airspace. Designed for cost-effective mass and rapid deployment, they offer a force-multiplying effect at significantly lower cost than traditional combat platforms.
As part of broader preparations, Beale Air Force Base in California has been identified as the preferred location for a new CCA Aircraft Readiness Unit (ARU). Unlike traditional aircraft squadrons, CCA systems will require fewer routine flights to maintain readiness, thanks to their semi-autonomous nature.
The ARU will focus on maintaining these platforms in a constant state of launch readiness, with a reduced manpower footprint compared to other systems.
Built around principles of agility, speed, and cost-efficiency, the CCA program uses open system architectures and commercial innovation to support rapid upgrades and scalable manufacturing.
A production decision for Increment 1 is expected in FY 2026, with Increment 2 development launching the same year to broaden mission profiles and integrate cutting-edge technologies.
As of 2023, the Fury is an unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) with a design reminiscent of a modern fighter jet, though it is roughly half the size of the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Its aerodynamic layout features swept trapezoidal wings, a chin-mounted air intake, and a cruciform tail configuration composed of stabilators and a single vertical stabilizer. The aircraft is designed for high-performance flight, capable of reaching altitudes of up to 50,000 feet (approximately 15,240 meters) and speeds approaching Mach 0.95. It can endure maneuvering loads of up to 9 g and sustain around 4.5 g at altitudes near 20,000 feet (about 6,100 meters).
The Fury is equipped with a single Williams FJ44-4M turbofan engine, which generates approximately 4,000 pounds-force (17.8 kilonewtons) of thrust. The aircraft supports external hardpoints for mounting various weapons systems and has a maximum gross takeoff weight of around 5,000 pounds (2,270 kilograms), making it suitable for a range of tactical missions in contested airspace. This performance profile positions it as a versatile and cost-effective option for future unmanned strike and reconnaissance operations.
