June drone digest: Landmark CCA contract and deep-strike capability flourishes at Eurosatory
Anduril will deliver an initial set of production FQ-44 semi-autonomous fighter aircraft to support continued testing, validation and, ultimately, operational fielding under the June 2026 contract. (Photo: Anduril)
June 2026 saw the landmark acquisition of the first fighter-type Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), while the month also hosted Eurosatory, which showcased deep-strike capabilities and production deals with the civilian industry.
The US Air Force (USAF) awarded production contracts for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) programme to General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) and Anduril Industries on 17 June for the first 150 CCAs. While the US Air Force (USAF) did not disclose the value of the initial awards, based on the targeted CCA cost outlined by USAF Secretary Frank Kendall at the programme’s origins, Defence Insight estimates the contracts were worth US$4.5 billion.
The deals are significant, as they are the first large-scale procurement spending on any fighter-like CCA in a market estimated at $74.68 billion. Not only will these contracts likely lead other nations
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![Leonardo details Proteus’s path to autonomous anti-submarine missions for the Royal Navy]()
Leonardo details Proteus’s path to autonomous anti-submarine missions for the Royal Navy
Leonardo’s integration of Shield AI’s Hivemind software could enable its Proteus uncrewed helicopter to conduct independent anti-submarine warfare missions, supporting the Royal Navy’s plans for a future hybrid air wing.
-
![European funding and NATO interoperability could shape Polish helicopter plans]()
European funding and NATO interoperability could shape Polish helicopter plans
Poland is seeking to update its transport helicopters as part of a wider military aviation modernisation programme, with EU funding requirements and NATO interoperability key considerations.
-
![Saab’s flight-tested AI agents signal new era of crewed-uncrewed fighter systems]()
Saab’s flight-tested AI agents signal new era of crewed-uncrewed fighter systems
Saab is developing artificial intelligence (AI) agents for crewed and uncrewed aircraft, targeting potential operational deployment within months, while expanding its training capabilities, partnerships and ambitions for wider military applications.
