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The Ghost Bat’s key strength is its fully modular nose, which can accommodate different sensors, radars, weapon systems, and electronic warfare modules for versatile missions
The live test signals the advent of an unmanned combat era poised to redefine air warfare. (Boeing)
The world of combat aviation is on the brink of a significant transformation, heralded not by a manned fighter jet, but by a formidable AI-operated stealth drone. Boeing has announced that its MQ-28 Ghost Bat will launch an AIM-120 AMRAAM missile for the first time next month, targeting a live airborne object. This event signals the advent of an unmanned combat era poised to redefine air warfare.
The MQ-28, already under testing by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), is being showcased globally as a ‘combat-ready, modular, multi-domain fighter.’
Steve Parker, Boeing’s defence chief, stated before the Dubai Airshow, “We are ready for live fire, and we will do it next month.”
This pronouncement has sparked speculation among military analysts about the emergence of a drone capable of autonomously finding targets, making decisions, and engaging in air battles.
Ghost Bat’s First Live Test At Woomera Range
The test will occur at Australia’s extensive Woomera Range Complex, one of the world’s largest weapons testing sites. Boeing confirmed this will be a genuine air-to-air encounter, with the MQ-28 autonomously locking onto and attempting to shoot down its target using the AIM-120.
According to a report published in ‘The War Zone,’ this will be the first instance of a Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) class AI drone utilising stealth, speed, and electronic countermeasures to fire a missile at a real target.
The test is more than just a demonstration; it sends a clear message to nations that have regarded drones merely as ISR platforms.
Sensors Powering The MQ-28 Hunt
The Ghost Bat’s greatest asset lies in its fully modular nose section, adaptable to various sensors, radars, weapon controls, or electronic warfare modules. At least two RAAF MQ-28s have been equipped with Infrared Search and Track (IRST) sensors, enabling them to hunt stealth targets like the F-35 and Su-57.
With IRST, the Ghost Bat can detect targets without using radar, remains unaffected by electronic jamming, can track stealth jets and cruise missiles, and operates silently. This capability makes the MQ-28 nearly undetectable, while it can effortlessly locate its adversaries.
Wedgetail And Ghost Bat
Boeing has advanced this system significantly, with the E-7A Wedgetail AWACS having controlled two live MQ-28s simultaneously, flown a digital virtual MQ-28 in formation, and tracked targets. This scenario illustrates the kind of network-centric aerial warfare that countries like China and Russia will need years to develop. The Ghost Bat operates in swarms rather than alone.
Australia has ordered 8 Block 1 prototypes and 3 new Block 2 units. For Block 2, Boeing has hinted at enhancements such as increased payload, more AI processing, and potentially air-to-air refuelling capabilities. In the future, Ghost Bats will function as a complete squadron, with one ‘lead bat’ directing the others.
International Interest In The MQ-28
The US Navy is evaluating the MQ-28 as a carrier-based drone, which, if successful, will become the first AI combat drone capable of carrier-based operations.
Other interested parties include Poland, which seeks to acquire the F-15EX and MQ-28 together, and Middle Eastern countries, where the market for CCA-type drones is rapidly expanding. Additionally, the US Air Force has tested the Ghost Bat in its CCA programme. It is evident that the MQ-28 is emerging as a highly sought-after asset for modern air forces.
The MQ-28 Ghost Bat Set To Transform Air Combat
The MQ-28 Ghost Bat is poised to revolutionise air combat by being the first drone capable of autonomously locating, tracking, engaging, and defending itself. Its inaugural live AIM-120 AMRAAM shot serves as a stark warning that the future of air combat will be unmanned, high-speed, and AI-driven. The MQ-28 is not just a drone; it is the digital fighter of the 21st century. With its first air-to-air ‘kill shot’ next month, the global military power dynamics are set to shift profoundly.
November 19, 2025, 18:14 IST
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