Boeing Australia has announced the successful conclusion of the MQ-28A Ghost Bat Capability Demonstration 2025 test campaign in partnership with Raaf (Royal Air Force).
Performed between April and June 2025, the rehearsals proved the operational viability of the autonomous drone months ahead of expected, validating capacities such as team operation with manned aircraft, execution of autonomous missions and data sharing between multiple MQ-28 and manned platforms.
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Two exercises, including Exercise Carlsbad and a joint mission with the WedgeTail e-7, demonstrated Ghost Bat performance outside the dedicated training area, integrating MQ-4C drone operations and F-35A fighters. MQ-28 actual platforms completed 150 hours of flight, while virtual tests exceeded 20,000 hours, showing technological maturity and operation capacity in complex scenarios.
The Block 2 MQ-28A, currently in production, maintains block 1 fuselage with internal improvements, enhanced navigation systems and multiple ISR, radar and EW load compatibility.
Integrated with the Airpower Teaming System concept, Ghost BAT will act in conjunction with aircraft such as F-35A, E-7A and EA-18G, complementing aerial missions and offering escort and combat support, with the first use of AR-AR weapon planned at the end of 2025 or early 2026.
Source: The Aviationist | Photo: x @boeingaustralia | This content was created with the help of AI and revised by the editorial team
✅Find ✅Fix ✅Track ✅Target
Tasked by the @AusAirForcewe proved the MQ‑28 can execute these critical air‑combat steps — ahead of schedule. Collaborative combat aircraft flying with crewed platforms means better threat awareness, faster decisions and safer crews.
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— Boeing Australia (@BoeingAustralia) September 5, 2025
