Emerald Flag 2024, a cutting-edge test programme, brought together emerging technologies and multi-domain warfare strategies. It focused on creating efficient long-range kill chains by integrating air, space, and cyberspace platforms in realistic combat training environments.
During the event, the XQ-58A operated as a forward-deployed sensing platform, providing vital threat-targeting data to Marine Corps fifth-generation aircraft. Its use of a common tactical data link enabled seamless communication with multiple participants, including a four-ship formation of F-35Bs from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 214.
“This XQ-58A test marked another milestone in the Marine Corps’ unmanned tactical aircraft programme,” said Colonel Derek Brannon, Branch Head for the Cunningham Group, Deputy Commandant for Aviation. “The success of this flight test during Emerald Flag pushed the manned-unmanned teaming concept a step further for the entire Joint Force.”
The collaborative effort was supported by the U.S. Air Force’s 96th Test Wing, the 53rd Test and Evaluation Group, the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory, and various naval and defence entities. These organisations collectively contributed to the ongoing research and evaluation under the Marine Corps’ Penetrating Affordable Autonomous Collaborative Killer – Portfolio (PAACK-P) programme.
The test served as the capstone for the PAACK-P Rapid Defense Experimentation Reserve project. It demonstrated the tactical utility of uncrewed offboard sensing platforms, a significant achievement for the Marine Corps’ evolving unmanned capabilities. Lieutenant Colonel Bradley Buick, future capabilities officer for the Cunningham Group, highlighted the event’s importance, stating, “This test flight proved the tactical utility of uncrewed offboard sensing platforms.”
Source: U.S. Marine Corps.
