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
-
![M-345 officially enters service as trainer for Italian Air Force]()
M-345 officially enters service as trainer for Italian Air Force
The Leonardo M-345 High-Efficiency Trainer (HET) basic/advanced trainer is similar to the M-346, which is the second part of the Italian Air Force’s training system, but is a substantially smaller and less powerful aircraft.
-
![Belgium’s F-35A order progresses at it awaits first jet delivery by late 2025]()
Belgium’s F-35A order progresses at it awaits first jet delivery by late 2025
The first aircraft delivery timeline confirmation comes as Belgium weighs up an additional F-3A buy from Lockheed Martin.
-
![Trump’s drone directives win US industry support but questions remain over ability to challenge Chinese market dominance]()
Trump’s drone directives win US industry support but questions remain over ability to challenge Chinese market dominance
New presidential directives for UAV production are intended to remove bureaucratic barriers and support suppliers.
-
![Enhancing education: How CAE is embracing new technology to boost military training]()
Enhancing education: How CAE is embracing new technology to boost military training
In Conversation... Shephard's Gerrard Cowan talks to CAE's Marc-Olivier Sabourin about how the training and simulation industry can help militaries achieve essential levels of readiness by leveraging new technology, innovative procurement methods and a truly collaborative approach.
-
![Paris Air Show 2025: Airbus Helicopters unveils new crewed-uncrewed teaming solution]()
Paris Air Show 2025: Airbus Helicopters unveils new crewed-uncrewed teaming solution
The solution, named HTeaming, has already been tested in flight with a Spanish Navy H135 helicopter and an Airbus Flexrotor uncrewed aerial system (UAS).
