US Air Force aiming to have CCA operational by end of the decade
US Air Force Colonel Helfrich and representatives from Anduril, General Atomics, Kratos and Shield AI discuss the CCA programme at the Airpower Futures Forum on 13 November. (Photo: author)
By making “tough choices”, the US Air Force’s CCA programme has continued to move forward with Increment 2 on the horizon.
The current timeline for the Collaborative Combative Aircraft (CCA) programme will see the initiative reach “operational capability by the end of the decade”, according to US Air Force Colonel Timothy Helfrich, senior materiel leader for the Advanced Aircraft Division at Air Force Materiel Command.
At the Airpower Futures Forum organised by the Mitchell Institute and taking place last week in Washington DC, Helfrich announced that the CCA designs of Anduril Industries and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems had completed their critical design reviews and production for prototype testing could now begin.
Helfrich and fellow panellists Diem Salmon, VP for air dominance
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![AI mission-autonomy software integration and partnerships see progress across CCA efforts]()
AI mission-autonomy software integration and partnerships see progress across CCA efforts
The successful integration of third-party mission autonomy in the US Air Force’s CCA programme and movement on Helsing’s Europa CA-1 timelines mark key milestones in the development of uncrewed aerial capabilities.
-
![Airbus Helicopters is deepening its European reach as NATO orders climb]()
Airbus Helicopters is deepening its European reach as NATO orders climb
Airbus has delivered more than 2,000 helicopters to nations across Europe, and continues to solidify its position at the heart of the region’s defence industrial base.
-
![World Defense Show 2026: Airbus details A400M upgrade as second Indonesia aircraft delivery looms]()
World Defense Show 2026: Airbus details A400M upgrade as second Indonesia aircraft delivery looms
With the A400M set for a capability upgrade, Airbus officials are bullish about the aircraft and its market potential for both new and existing customers with the improvements geared towards meeting future requirements.
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: Rafael highlights tailored effector solutions for different operational needs]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: Rafael highlights tailored effector solutions for different operational needs
Shephard spoke with Rafael’s CEO about the company’s effector offerings as well as his perspective on one-way attack drones.
