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USAF makes strides in stealthy connectivity, hypersonics and use of AI

24th December 2020 - 13:00 GMT | by David Isby in Virginia

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In a busy December, the USAF has tested concepts for fifth-generation fighter connectivity, the loyal wingman UAV, hypersonic weaponry and advanced AI.

For the first time, the USAF has flight-tested a communications link between two fifth-generation Lockheed Martin stealth fighters (an F-22 Raptor and an F-35 Lightning II), using a translator gateway payload carried internally in a Kratos XQ-58A Valkyrie UAV.

While connectivity was lost after takeoff, the UAV was still able to carry out semi-autonomous flight with the fighters.

The test (pictured) was announced on 15 December, a week after it took place above the Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona, following extensive ground testing.

Various USAF efforts to enhance fifth-generation fighter connectivity (while maintaining stealth) have been in progress for

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