The U.S. Air Force has chosen to locate its first “Aircraft Readiness Unit” for the forthcoming drone wingmen, or “Collaborative Combat Aircraft” (CCA), at Beale Air Force Base in northern California. The CCA, which is expected to accompany the F-47 NGAD sixth-generation fighter, has begun ground testing in preparation for a first test flight, scheduled for this summer. 

“Starting ground tests is a key milestone for the CCA Increment 1 program,” said General David Allvin, Air Force Chief of Staff. “This phase bridges the gap between design and flight, reducing integration risks, boosting confidence, and laying the groundwork for a successful first flight and eventual fielding to the warfighter.”

Testing the New Drone Wingmen at Beale Air Force Base

The Aircraft Readiness Unit, stationed at Beale AFB, will “provide combat aircraft ready to deploy worldwide at a moment’s notice,” according to the Air Force. Accordingly, the CCA is expected to “fly a significant number of daily sorties to maintain........

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