The Australian-developed MQ-28 integrated with forces from U.S. Pacific Command during the June exercise. Its participation supported the U.S. Air Force Experimental Operations Unit’s objectives for collaborative combat aircraft integration.
The MQ-28 flew in an exercise environment alongside F-35A, F-35B, F-15EX, HC-130, E-3, E-2D, EA-18G and RC-135 aircraft. Boeing said the activity also included various other joint and coalition aircraft.
The aircraft participated with crewed platforms around the Marianas Island Range Complex in the Western Pacific. The exercise allowed forces to refine tactics, techniques and procedures for future operations involving collaborative combat aircraft.
Boeing said such exercises are important for demonstrating MQ-28 interoperability and interchangeability. The company said the deployment also helps prove the aircraft’s ability to integrate into a joint force.
“Having MQ-28 participate in such a significant military training exercise is a first, and this is just the start of demonstrating how advanced human-machine teaming extends the reach and awareness of crewed platforms and enhances joint force operations,” said Steve Parker, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Defense, Space & Security. “We’ve proven that it’s combat capable and now U.S. military, along with allied and partner forces, are able to test it first-hand and experience the value and advantage that CCA bring to the force mix.”
The MQ-28 is part of Boeing’s broader family of systems. The aircraft has been developed using open mission systems and government reference architectures that allow defense forces to rapidly integrate sovereign payloads for specific mission requirements.
Boeing said the MQ-28 is designed to team with fourth-, fifth- and sixth-generation aircraft. The aim is to enhance the capabilities of the entire fleet through human-machine teaming.
“MQ-28 Ghost Bat is the most proven, mature CCA in allied nations and this latest demonstration highlights our readiness to bring this Australian-developed capability to global air forces,” said Amy List, vice president and managing director, Boeing Defence Australia. The company said the exercise provided key learning on deployment, sustainment and agile combat employment for the aircraft.
Valiant Shield is a biennial exercise focused on integrating the joint force. It develops real-world proficiency in detecting, locating, tracking and engaging units at sea, in the air, on land and in cyberspace across a range of mission areas.
