AI & Robotics
US Air Force Taps Honeywell to Build Engines for Autonomous Drone Wingmen
The US Air Force has awarded Honeywell a prototype contract to adapt its SkyShot 1600 engine for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program. The compact engine will power autonomous drone wingmen designed to fly alongside piloted fighter jets in contested airspace.
Key Takeaways
- Honeywell awarded prototype contract for SkyShot 1600 engine for CCA program
- Engine supports turbofan and turbojet variants for different mission profiles
- Air Force plans to procure 1,000+ autonomous wingmen over the next decade
- CCA drones designed to cost $20-30M each versus $80M+ for an F-35
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