Boeing Unveils Enlarged MQ-28 Drone for Fierce Competition in Germany's Loyal Wingman Program

Boeing Australia, in partnership with Germany's Rheinmetall, is making a strong bid for Germany's burgeoning Loyal Wingman program. At the Berlin Air Show, the companies unveiled a significantly enhanced version of the MQ-28 "Ghost Bat" uncrewed combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), designed to meet the specific requirements of the German Air Force.

The showcased MQ-28 features a 25% increase in wingspan, a modification that substantially boosts its capacity for carrying additional fuel and weaponry. This enlarged airframe can accommodate approximately 907 kilograms more in its internal weapons bay, which is capable of housing munitions such as two AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles or four small-diameter bombs. The drone has accumulated over 200 flight hours, demonstrating its operational readiness.

Further enhancements include a modular mission nose, allowing for the integration of various sensors, and an extended-range communication suite for remote operation. Boeing highlighted the drone's stealth capabilities, validated through extensive testing, and its potential to fulfill diverse defense needs beyond its original Australian requirements. The company also announced plans to integrate German-made armaments, like the IRIS-T air-to-air missile, and collaborate with Rohde & Schwarz for seamless integration into the German military's command and control systems.

However, Boeing faces stiff competition in the German market. Hensoldt presented its CA-1 Europa electronic attack variant, with an attack version expected by 2027. Airbus, in collaboration with Kratos, displayed a full-scale model of the U760 "Ravenstorm," a European version of a CCA. General Atomics is also exhibiting its Gambit series drones, already selected for the U.S. Air Force's CCA program and ready for deployment with integrated weapon systems.

Germany's push for these advanced aerial systems is driven by concerns over potential Russian military actions. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has warned of Russia's possible capability to act against NATO by 2029, underscoring Berlin's urgency to deploy next-generation air combat capabilities, including loyal wingmen, to bolster deterrence and defense.

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We are still in negotiations with the German government, but if Berlin wants to receive the first CCA systems by 2029, the contract must be finalized by next year at the latest.