Collins Aerospace Sidekick Enables Four-Hour Autonomous Flight on CCA YFQ-42A Drone
Collins Aerospace showcased its Sidekick mission autonomy software in a successful four-hour autonomous flight of General Atomics’ YFQ-42A uncrewed jet for the U.S. Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft program. The business was selected to support CCA Increment 1 development and testing following seamless Sidekick integration.
1. Flight Demonstration of Sidekick Autonomy
Collins Aerospace flew Sidekick mission autonomy software on the YFQ-42A uncrewed jet with a four-hour autonomous mission overseen by a ground operator, validating enhanced sensor range, weapon effectiveness and precise piloting coordination.
2. Software Integration and Open Systems Approach
Sidekick’s open systems architecture enabled rapid integration onto the YFQ-42A, intuitively adjusting to pilot workflows and mission specifics after nearly a decade of focused development and customer collaboration.
3. Strategic Role in CCA Increment 1 Program
The U.S. Air Force then selected Collins Aerospace to support CCA Increment 1 development and testing, solidifying the company’s role in advancing collaborative combat autonomy capabilities.