At the recent Berlin Airshow, the focus of attention was on the "wingman" unmanned aircraft models, a new generation of weapons designed to operate with manned fighters on the modern battlefield.
The development of this technology takes place in the context of the conflict in Ukraine, showing the increasingly important role of drones and electronic warfare. European and US defense forces are accelerating the development of artificial intelligence-based aircraft to support fighters by carrying sensors, jamming devices and additional weapons.
In Berlin, Airbus, Boeing, Helsing and General Atomics presented the latest designs to the German military and other potential customers.
The "wingman" vehicles, also known as collaborative combat aircraft (CCA), have diverse sizes, from small types specializing in interception to large models equivalent to conventional aircraft. They operate under the "loyal wing" model, flying with and supporting manned aircraft.
The trend of investing in this technology is also associated with the debate in Europe about building a self-reliant defense industry and reducing dependence on the US. Ms. Stephanie Lingemann - in charge of aviation at German defense company Helsing - believes that the artificial intelligence brain of these systems needs to be controlled in a way that ensures sovereignty.
Germany and France recently put aside joint fighter development plans, but are seeking to maintain part of the Future Air Combat System program by developing data networks and related drone systems.
According to defense experts, the war in Ukraine shows that disrupting sensors and communication systems can be as decisive as direct attacks. Helsing said that the company's electronic warfare aircraft model is designed to coordinate with automatic attack aircraft groups.
Despite receiving much attention, the "wingman" models have not yet been deployed on the battlefield. Boeing said that the MQ-28 Ghost Bat may be put into service with the German Air Force from 2029. Airbus expects the U760b Ravenstorm to appear in the 2030s. Meanwhile, General Atomics' YFQ-42A is in the testing phase and has been selected by the US Air Force to support prototype development.
