Modern air combat is evolving towards a model in which autonomous aircraft work alongside conventional fighters to expand operational reach and reduce risks to pilots. Australia’s MQ-28 Ghost Bat, developed by Boeing Defence Australia and the RAAF, is designed to fulfil this collaborative combat role. Initially launched as the Airpower Teaming System in 2019, the programme produced a full-scale prototype in 2020 and achieved its maiden flight in 2021. The RAAF subsequently named the aircraft MQ-28A Ghost Bat in 2022. Its intended missions include surveillance, intelligence collection, electronic warfare and strike support. A configurable nose section allows mission-specific equipment to be installed, while its open architecture supports future upgrades. With a stated range of more than 2,000 nautical miles, the platform is intended to accompany crewed aircraft across extended operational distances. Development has progressed through flight trials, weapons testing and collaborative operations. The programme entered a new phase with a December 2025 order for seven additional aircraft valued at A$754 million. This tranche includes six Block 2 units and the first Block 3 aircraft. Australia is working towards initial operational capability by 2028, while Block 3 is being developed with potential international customers in mind.
