Northrop Grumman has officially announced Project Talon, a new cooperative combat drone developed to deliver high performance at reduced cost.
In collaboration with Scaled Composites, the Talon incorporates lessons learned from the first cycle of the U.S. Air Force’s CCA program and is designed for rapid production, with half the number of parts and approximately 1,000 pounds lighter than its predecessor. The first flight is expected to take place within nine months.
The drone has low-observability characteristics, lambda-shaped wings, a V-shaped tail, a trapezoidal rear air intake, and may also have an internal weapons compartment. Although not yet fully configured for missions, Talon is adaptable to a variety of roles depending on customer requirements and has already attracted interest from the U.S. military and international buyers. The Prism autonomy package that controls the system is being tested on other demo machines.
In addition to introducing a new drone, Northrop Grumman says the Talon represents a transformation in the development process. It focuses on speed, modularity, and low cost to enable accelerated production in a war of attrition scenario. The company, which has invested more internally than its competitors, hopes Talon will demonstrate new design methodologies and influence future aviation programs.
source: The War Zone | Photo: X @NGCNews | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team
Project Talon is here. This next-gen autonomous aircraft is made to adapt fast.
Modular by design
— Northrop Grumman (@northropgrumman) December 4, 2025
Modular by designMeet Project Talon: Our game-changing autonomous wingman that will redefine air dominance and enhance combat operations. Project Talon was designed, built and on track to fly in under 24 months. Learn more: pic.twitter.com/0XcD4jKHfT
— Northrop Grumman (@NGCNews) December 4, 2025
