Lockheed Martin has discussed connecting F-35 Lightning II fighters with MQ-28 Ghost Bat drones

We wrote that Lockheed Martin may receive an additional order for fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighters for the Royal Australian Air Force. It also became known that the American company considers connecting the aircraft with MQ-28 Ghost Bat drones.

Here's What We Know

Australia has purchased 72 F-35A fighters to form three squadrons and may approve the purchase of another squadron in April 2023. If the contract is signed this year, deliveries will take around four years.

This was revealed at the Australia International Airshow 2023 event. There, Lockheed Martin executive vice president Greg Ulmer said the company have already had the discussions about connecting aircraft with Australia's MQ-28 Ghost Bat drones developed by Boeing.

It is difficult to say exactly what they are talking about. Ulmer's words were commented by the head of Boeing Ted Colbert. He called the partnership of two defence companies "excellent news".

The Ghost Bat is a manned drone designed to assist fifth- and sixth-generation aircraft. It is the first military drone built in Australia in more than half a century. Boeing now has two prototypes, and the first combat versions won't appear until 2024 at the earliest, possibly entering service with the US Air Force.

Pilots of the aircraft will be able to take control of the MQ-28. The drone will be used for reconnaissance, searching for enemy air defence systems and strikes. In addition, the low cost will allow the Ghost Bat to be used as a disposable shield, protecting manned aircraft from enemy fire.

Source: CNBC