The U.S. Air Force has officially recognized Northrop Grumman’s Project Talon semi-autonomous system with the designation “YFQ-48A,” marking its formal integration into the service’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. This designation positions Project Talon as the third unmanned fighter prototype to receive a Mission Design Series designation under this initiative, joining the ranks of General Atomics’ YFQ-42A and Anduril’s YFQ-44A.
According to Pentagon naming conventions, the designation breaks down as follows: ‘Y’ denotes a prototype, ‘F’ indicates a fighter, and ‘Q’ signifies that the vehicle is uncrewed. This clear categorization helps streamline the identification and classification of various military aircraft within the program.
The CCA program is envisioned to produce affordable, operationally flexible aircraft that augment manned fighter capabilities, like the F-35 and the future F-47. These systems are intended to serve as critical force multipliers in combat scenarios, particularly in contested environments. Aiming for broader integration, the CCA platforms—commonly referred to as “loyal wingman” drones—are expected to work alongside both modern systems and older aircraft, including the F-15 and KC-46 tankers.
Following an initial setback in the program’s first increment, Northrop Grumman continued to advance the development of Project Talon, a commitment aligned with the U.S. Air Force’s competitive acquisition strategy. While specific design modifications and improvements remain undisclosed, the company noted that the new model is “significantly different” from earlier iterations. Key enhancements include a reduction of approximately 1,000 pounds (454 kilograms) in weight, a 50 percent decrease in parts, and a 30 percent acceleration in assembly time, as reported by Air & Space Forces Magazine.
Brig. Gen. Jason Voorheis, program executive officer for fighters and advanced aircraft, expressed optimism regarding Northrop Grumman’s ongoing investment in semi-autonomous technology. He highlighted that the company’s innovative approach aligns with the Air Force’s objectives to enhance competition, stimulate industry innovation, and deliver state-of-the-art technology quickly and efficiently.
