The U.S. Navy’s stated requirements for its Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) effort indicate a drone resembling an advanced uncrewed combat air vehicle (UCAV) rather than a smaller “loyal wingman.” The requirements are framed as echoing earlier Navy work on the X-47B and UCLASS, which were replaced by the MQ-25 Stingray tanker effort.
WHO:U.S. Navy
WHAT:Stated CCA requirements indicate a shift toward an advanced UCAV-style air combat drone.
WHEN:Reported Sep 1, 2026 at 3:20 PM ET
WHERE:USA
WHY:The Navy’s newest stated CCA requirements define the desired drone capability as independent combat rather than a smaller autonomous loyal wingman.
Reporting from 1 identified publisher for this event.
