BLUF
A prototype loyal wingman drone crash has halted flight testing, highlighting development risks in autonomous combat aircraft programs and reinforcing the importance of disciplined investigation, safety protocols, and iterative learning in advancing next-generation airpower capabilities.Learning Outcomes:
- Explain the role of drones within collaborative combat aircraft concepts.
- Assess the implications of prototype failures on defence acquisition timelines, risk management, and technology maturation.
- Discuss the importance of safety protocols and rigorous testing in the development of systems.
