USAF makes strides in stealthy connectivity, hypersonics and use of AI
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
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Why the F-16 fighter jet remains a force to be reckoned with (updated 2026)]()
Why the F-16 fighter jet remains a force to be reckoned with (updated 2026)
The Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jet remains in the limelight more than 40 years after its first flight. Shephard sums up the latest developments and details everything you need to know about the aircraft in 2026.
-
![Airbus Helicopters sees defence portfolio’s “strong momentum” continue into 2026]()
Airbus Helicopters sees defence portfolio’s “strong momentum” continue into 2026
The aerospace company’s 2025 performance figures revealed significant orders from various European armed forces and a boost in demand for its uncrewed offerings.
-
![January Drone Digest: MALE, rotary-wing and loitering munition UAVs dominate early 2026]()
January Drone Digest: MALE, rotary-wing and loitering munition UAVs dominate early 2026
The first month of 2026 has seen activity in the MALE, rotary-wing, and loitering munition UAV markets, with significant investments and commitments from Germany, Turkey, the UAE and the US. At the same time, questions over loitering munition performance in Ukraine highlight the growing scrutiny alongside rising demand.
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: Early adopters and big spenders point to UAV market opportunities]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: Early adopters and big spenders point to UAV market opportunities
While an estimated $37.99bn is still to be awarded across the Asia-Pacific uncrewed aerial vehicle market, the balance of potential future spending is unevenly split between various countries, with significant opportunities to be found in the collaborative combat aircraft space.
