ATS achieves flight milestone and new contract
Australia is doubling its commitment to the Loyal Wingman programme just as the Airpower Teaming System made its maiden flight.
The Airpower Teaming System (ATS) muiltirole large UAV has taken major steps forward with a first flight on 27 February, a commitment by Australia to double the number of development aircraft and manufacturer Boeing offering it for the USAF Skyborg programme.
Three platforms were ordered by the RAAF in its Loyal Wingman programme. The maiden flight (pictured), at the RAAF Woomera Range Complex in South Australia, took place almost exactly two years after ATS was unveiled at the 2019 Australian Airshow.
The remaining two ATS platforms are expected to be completed in 2021 and the Australian government announced on the
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.
