# USAF Integrates Early CCA Aircraft in Emerald Flag

The U.S. Air Force is preparing to deploy early production Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), specifically General Atomics' FQ-42A Vengeance and Anduril Industries' FQ-44A Fury, in the December Emerald Flag exercise at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. These unmanned systems, evolved from YFQ prototypes, will operate alongside manned fighters, demonstrating the USAF's commitment to advancing integrated manned-unmanned combat capabilities. This initiative reflects a strategic procurement focus on accelerating the operational testing and integration of cutting-edge autonomous combat aircraft within existing force structures.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should note the USAF's emphasis on early production CCAs, signaling potential upcoming contract opportunities for unmanned combat systems and related support services.
- The involvement of prime contractors General Atomics and Anduril Industries highlights key industry players positioned for future USAF unmanned aircraft procurements.
- This integration effort may drive demand for advanced systems integration, testing, and sustainment services, impacting contractor planning and resource allocation.
- Organizations should evaluate capabilities aligned with autonomous combat platforms and interoperability with manned systems to align with USAF modernization priorities.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence
**Published:** September 28, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Air Force (USAF)

### Vendors
- General Atomics-Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (prime contractor)
- Anduril Industries (prime contractor)

### Sources
- [USAF Plans Participation of Early CCA Production Aircraft In Emerald Flag - Defense Daily](https://www.defensedaily.com/usaf-plans-participation-of-early-cca-production-aircraft-in-emerald-flag/air-force) - Defense Daily