Pratt & Whitney has integrated a PW500 engine family member into Northrop Grumman’s YFQ-48A Talon Blue Collaborative Combat Aircraft, readying it for flight tests. The U.S. Air Force continues evaluating this design alongside others for its CCA program Increment II.
The engine, adapted from commercial business jet technology with over 24.5 million flight hours, underwent extensive testing to meet CCA mission demands. Results confirmed strong thrust, range, and operability under simulated combat conditions.
Northrop Grumman unveiled Project Talon—now designated YFQ-48A by the USAF in December 2025—as a semi-autonomous unmanned fighter. Developed in under 24 months using modular manufacturing, it emphasizes reduced weight, lower costs, and faster production.
This “loyal wingman” integrates with crewed platforms like the F-35, F-22, and F-15EX for manned-unmanned teaming in air-to-air missions. The Pratt & Whitney collaboration accelerates innovation by leveraging proven engines, cutting development timelines while enhancing performance.
The YFQ-48A joins designated competitors YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A, positioning it as a contender for 2026 USAF selections. First flight remains on track for this year, bolstering Air Force air dominance strategies through affordable, attritable drones.