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Boeing’s Loyal Wingman has undertaken its first test flight, Boeing has confirmed.
Boeing’s Loyal Wingman – the Airpower Teaming System – has undertaken its maiden flight, marking the success of Australia’s first locally constructed defence aircraft in over 50 years.
The successful flight comes following $115 million in development funding from the RAAF, and will bring together some 35 Australian industry partners. The Loyal Wingman is expected to provide support to critical defence air assets, following clearance from the testing phase.
The Loyal Wingman executed the flight on 27 February, with support from a pilot at Woomera.
“The Loyal Wingman’s first flight is a major step in this long-term, significant project for the Air Force and Boeing Australia, and we’re thrilled to be a part of the successful test,” said Air Vice-Marshal Cath Roberts, Head of Air Force Capability for the RAAF.
Leanne Caret, president of Boeing Defense, Space & Security and CEO, noted, “Boeing and Australia are pioneering fully integrated combat operations by crewed and uncrewed aircraft.
“We’re honoured to be opening this part of aviation’s future with the Royal Australian Air Force, and we look forward to showing others how they also could benefit from our loyal wingman capabilities.”
[Related: Sikorsky to deliver final set of VH-92A helicopters to Marines]
