Germany is reassessing its plans for a future unmanned fighter-bomber program, shifting away from initial consideration of the MQ-29 Ghost Bat drone to evaluate a wider range of options, according to reports from German outlet Hartpunkt. The move comes as Berlin aims to achieve initial operational capability (IOC) for the system by 2029.
The German Ministry of Defence is now considering the American Kratos XQ-58A Valkyrie, which has already been selected by Airbus, alongside an unnamed third option. This shift signals a broadening of the search for a platform capable of engaging in air combat, conducting ground strikes, and crucially, returning to base even after losing communication with its control systems.
The decision to re-evaluate options reflects a growing urgency within Germany to address capability gaps and bolster its defense capabilities. The pursuit of a “fighter-bomber drone,” as described by German sources, underscores a desire to mitigate risks to pilots, particularly in high-threat scenarios such as supporting ground troops or conducting strikes in contested territory.
This development aligns with a broader international trend towards manned-unmanned teaming (MUT), where unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) operate in conjunction with piloted aircraft to enhance mission effectiveness. The concept, also known as “loyal wingman” technology, aims to augment the capabilities of fighter jets while reducing the exposure of human pilots to danger. The US Air Force is also pursuing similar capabilities, planning to pair the F-22 Raptor with loyal wingman drones around the same timeframe – 2029 or 2030.
The XQ-58A Valkyrie, developed by Kratos, is designed as a collaborative combat aircraft (CCA), intended to operate as a team with next-generation manned fighters. CCAs utilize artificial intelligence to increase survivability and reduce costs. The US Air Force plans to invest over $8.9 billion in CCA programs between 2025 and 2029, potentially reducing the need for additional manned squadrons.
Germany’s interest in a fighter-bomber UAV also comes amid a wider push for rearmament, including plans to increase its order of F-35A fighter jets from 35 to 50, procure additional Eurofighters, and develop a 2,000-kilometer range cruise missile in collaboration with the United Kingdom. The country aims to be “ready for war” by 2029, a significant shift in posture for a nation that, until recently, was hesitant to militarize UAVs.
Several US drone manufacturers, including Anduril, Boeing, General Atomics, Lockheed Martin, and Kratos, are actively seeking to establish a presence in Germany to support the program. Airbus is reportedly in talks with Kratos, while Rheinmetall is engaging with Anduril, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin simultaneously. This competition highlights the strategic importance of the German market for drone technology.
The potential for a third, currently unnamed, UAV option raises questions about the possibility of a European solution. While two of the contenders are American, there is speculation that Germany may favor a European manufacturer. However, it remains uncertain whether German companies like Helsing and Grob will be able to develop a viable option within the ambitious 2029 timeframe.
Recent developments from German company Quantum Systems, in cooperation with Airbus Defence and Space, may also be relevant. The company has developed a jet-powered target drone, the RAT, which was brought from concept to first flight in just six weeks. While initially designed as a target drone, its rapid development and capabilities suggest potential applications beyond that role.
The German procurement process is occurring against a backdrop of evolving aerial warfare strategies. The concept of “loyal wingman” drones, exemplified by the Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat – developed in collaboration with the Royal Australian Air Force – is gaining traction globally. These highly autonomous platforms are designed to operate alongside fighter jets, augmenting their capabilities and reducing risks to pilots at a fraction of the cost of a manned aircraft.
The MQ-28 Ghost Bat has completed over 100 test flights and is slated to conduct test launches of air-to-air missiles by the end of 2025 or early 2026. However, Germany’s current focus appears to be on a standalone combat UAV, rather than a loyal wingman designed to operate solely in support of manned aircraft.
Germany’s decision to pursue an unmanned fighter-bomber capability reflects a broader recognition of the growing importance of UAVs in modern warfare. As aerial combat evolves towards greater integration of manned and unmanned systems, the ability to deploy advanced, autonomous platforms will be crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. The outcome of Germany’s procurement process will likely have significant implications for the future of European air power and the development of unmanned combat technology.
In January 2026, Germany also ordered eight MQ-9B SeaGuardian unmanned aerial systems from General Atomics to equip its navy, primarily for maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations. This separate procurement underscores Germany’s comprehensive approach to expanding its UAV capabilities across multiple domains.
