The US Air Force has successfully conducted its first live fire exercise of a fighter drone, unleashing an air-to-air missile over the Mojave Desert. The test, which took place on July 10, involved the YFQ-44A drone, a semi-autonomous aircraft developed under the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) programme.
Live fire test details
The drone fired an AIM-120 air-to-air missile at a digital target, marking the first live weapons release for the CCA programme. The aircraft was controlled by a pilot on the ground, who retained full authority over the launch. US military chiefs emphasised that the drone was not authorised to fire autonomously; a human operator must approve any engagement and remains in control throughout the mission.
Prior to the live launch, the YFQ-44A had carried inert missiles to test its handling and communications systems. The latest exercise proved the aircraft could safely execute the complex sequence required to launch a missile after receiving instructions from its operator.
Programme significance
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach said: 'This live-fire test is an important next step in the development of Collaborative Combat Aircraft.' The programme aims to provide future fighter pilots with additional support in combat by pairing them with multiple lower-cost drones capable of scouting ahead, gathering intelligence, and, when instructed, engaging enemy aircraft.
Gen. Dale White, who oversees several major Pentagon weapons programmes, added: 'These tests provide operational validation that Collaborative Combat Aircraft can execute the weapon employment sequence within pilot-defined parameters.' He described the successful launch as an important milestone for the project.
Test execution
The live-fire trial was carried out by the Air Force’s 412th Test Wing in restricted airspace over the Mojave Desert. Engineers and military personnel collaborated to ensure the launch was conducted safely. The test underscores the US military's commitment to integrating advanced unmanned systems into its aerial combat capabilities.
