Image: Staff Sgt. Nicolas Erwin · Public domain · via Wikimedia Commons
Boeing to Introduce MQ-28 Ghost Bat for UK Collaborative Combat Aircraft Program
Boeing Defence UK will showcase the Australian-developed MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone at Farnborough, targeting the UK's future autonomous fighter jet initiative before 2030.
The gist
Boeing aims to supply its MQ-28 Ghost Bat UAV for the UK’s upcoming autonomous combat aircraft effort revealed in the Defence Investment Plan.
Continuing coverage
All Boeing →- Boeing Eyes AESA Radar to Boost Apache Attack Helicopter Against Drone Threats
- FAA Restores Boeing's Authority to Certify 737 MAX and 787 Deliveries
- FAA Restores Boeing's Authority to Self-Certify 737 MAX and 787 Aircraft
- FAA Restores Boeing's Authority to Self-Issue Airworthiness Certificates for 737MAX and 787
- FAA Restores Boeing's Authority to Certify New 737 MAX and 787 Jets
Boeing Defence UK announced plans to promote the MQ-28 Ghost Bat collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) at the upcoming Farnborough airshow, aligning with the UK's future defense ambitions outlined in its Defence Investment Plan (DIP). The DIP specifies a demonstration of a UK autonomous fighter jet system before 2030 but lacks definitive acquisition details. Thom Breckenridge, managing director of Boeing Defence UK, expressed optimism about the Ghost Bat's capability and readiness for UK armed forces, highlighting its maturity compared to competitors.
The MQ-28 Ghost Bat is an Australian-developed unmanned platform designed to operate alongside manned aircraft, enhancing mission flexibility and survivability. Boeing emphasizes the drone’s unique development approach and advanced capabilities that distinguish it from other options in the evolving autonomous combat aircraft arena. Breckenridge also indicated potential collaboration opportunities for Boeing Defence UK in payload integration and ongoing sustainment efforts if the platform is selected.
Alongside the Ghost Bat, Boeing is also focusing on the T-7A Red Hawk, aiming to meet the UK's future jet trainer needs, a program also referenced within the DIP. The Red Hawk is pitched as a comprehensive solution combining an advanced aircraft with integrated ground-based and synthetic training systems, tailored to surpass other contenders for the Royal Air Force (RAF) Jet Training System (JTS) competition.
The RAF’s trainer replacement process remains in early stages, with the government allocating an initial £360 million to recapitalize the training fleet and provide new aircraft for the iconic Red Arrows aerobatic team. Boeing has signed a letter of intent with BAE Systems for final assembly of the T-7 in the UK, reinforcing its intent to maximize local industrial involvement and supplier participation if awarded the contract.
Boeing Defence UK has established a significant presence across numerous British military locations, including Lossiemouth, Waddington, Wattisham, Bristol, and Gosport. The organization has expanded from a small operation to a 2,000-strong workforce that supports critical RAF and British Army platforms such as the CH-47 Chinook, AH-64E Apache helicopters, and the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. This extensive portfolio underscores Boeing’s deep integration with the UK defense sector.
The company continues its role in managing pilot and maintainer training for the RAF's C-17 strategic transports from its Farnborough facility. A major highlight is its support of the newly introduced E-7A Wedgetail airborne early warning and control aircraft. The first E-7A, a derivative of the Boeing 737NG, arrived at RAF Lossiemouth in May and is undergoing testing, with two additional aircraft nearing completion.
Boeing personnel are actively engaged in finalizing flight trials for the E-7A Wedgetail, aiming to deliver operational capabilities that meet high safety and performance standards. This program is critical to enhancing the RAF's surveillance and command functions, securing Boeing’s continued relevance and contribution to UK air power modernization efforts.
The convergence of the MQ-28 Ghost Bat CCA and the T-7A Red Hawk trainer bids demonstrates Boeing Defence UK's strategic intent to remain a pivotal supplier as the RAF upgrades its operational and training fleets. The company’s commitment to British industry involvement and delivering mature, innovative systems aligns with the UK's defense priorities outlined in the recent investment plan.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Boeing's MQ-28 Ghost Bat and why is it relevant to the UK?
- The MQ-28 Ghost Bat is an Australian-developed collaborative combat aircraft (unmanned drone) that Boeing plans to promote for the UK's future autonomous fighter jet program to demonstrate capability before 2030.
- What other Boeing aircraft is being promoted to the UK at Farnborough?
- Boeing is also promoting the T-7A Red Hawk advanced jet trainer, targeting the RAF's future jet training system to replace the Hawk T2, including integration of ground-based and synthetic training.
Read more
All Military/Defense →
Vertical Aerospace to Perform First Public eVTOL Flights at Farnborough Airshow 2026
Vertical Aerospace (NYSE: EVTL), a pioneering company in UK electric aviation, is set to make history at the Farnborough International Airshow (20-24 July 2026). ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); }); The firm plans to conduct the first-ever public electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) demonstration flights at the prestigious event. This milestone highlights Vertical’s rapid progress toward certification and eventual commercial operations. The demonstrations arrive at a pivotal moment for the company. In the past year, Vertical has achieved several major advancements. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(127); }); It launched its commercial aircraft, named Valo, completed successful piloted transition flights, strengthened its financial position, and expanded its global network of technology partners. The company has also advanced its hybrid-electric defence initiatives while making steady headway in its certification programme. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(128); }); Having proven the aircraft’s core capabilities, Vertical now shifts focus to the next critical stages: certification, industrialisation, and commercialisation. These efforts position the company to deliver sustainable, efficient air mobility solutions in the near future. Photo Credit: Vertical Aerospace Public Flights and Full-Scale Display At Farnborough, Vertical will showcase its progress in two key ways. Visitors will witness public piloted flights of the full-scale prototype, and they can explore a full-scale commercial model of Valo on the exhibition floor. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(129); }); Stuart Simpson, CEO of Vertical Aerospace , expressed confidence in the company’s trajectory. “Vertical arrives at Farnborough with the key building blocks now in place,” he said. “Over the past year we’ve transformed the business – from launching Valo and achieving piloted transition to strengthening our financial position and expanding our industrial ecosystem. We’ve proven the technology.” “Our focus now is executing the roadmap to certification, industrialisation and commercial service. Every milestone we deliver reduces risk, strengthens our competitive position and brings us closer to building one of the world’s leading electric aerospace companies.” ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(130); }); Flight Demonstrations Open to the Public Vertical intends to perform public demonstration flights throughout the airshow week, marking the first time an eVTOL aircraft flies publicly at Farnborough. These flights remain subject to weather and regulatory approval. The planned demonstrations follow a recent decision by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to expand Vertical’s Permit to Fly. This approval allows the company to operate public flights beyond its base at Cotswold Airport. Since receiving this authorisation, Vertical’s test pilots have successfully flown to multiple locations, including RAF Brize Norton, RAF Benson, Blackbushe Airport, and Farnborough Airport itself. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(131); }); These operations have broadened the flight test programme and provided valuable experience across different operating environments. Such real-world testing is essential as the company moves closer to full certification and commercial service. Attendees interested in the latest flight schedules can join the Vertical Aerospace Farnborough International Airshow 2026 WhatsApp channel for real-time updates. Photo Credit: Gareth Iwan Jones Exploring the Valo Aircraft In Hall 4, visitors will have the opportunity to examine the full-scale commercial model of Valo up close and meet members of the team developing this advanced electric aircraft. The displayed model builds directly on the success of the flying prototype currently performing at the show. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(132); }); Vertical brings one of the industry’s most robust technology ecosystems to Farnborough. The company collaborates with leading global partners, including Honeywell Aerospace, Aciturri, Evolito, Hyundai WIA, Syensqo, Sonaca, and Isoclima. It also holds approximately 1,500 conditional pre-orders from customers across four continents, such as American Airlines, Avolon, Bristow, GOL, and Japan Airlines. This week, Vertical announced a strategic partnership with Near Earth Autonomy. The collaboration aims to integrate advanced autonomous flight capabilities into Valo, supporting both future defence and commercial applications. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(133); }); Leadership Voices on the Future of Air Mobility Throughout the week, Vertical’s executives will participate in high-level discussions about Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and the path to commercial electric aviation. On Monday, 20 July (11:15–12:00) in Hall 3 – AGN Theatre 1L, Stuart Simpson will join a panel on “UK Leadership in Advanced Air Mobility.” Moderated by Sir Stephen Hillier, Chair of the UK Civil Aviation Authority, the session will explore how the UK can convert its early advantages in aircraft development, regulation, and operations into long-term commercial success. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(134); }); Other confirmed speakers include representatives from Bristow Group, the CAA, NATS, and the Department for Transport. On Tuesday, 21 July (15:00–16:00), Simpson will take part in the “Inside the eVTOL Market” panel at the show’s inaugural Finance Summit in Hall 4. Hosted by Cantor Fitzgerald, the discussion will feature several prominent CEOs. This will include Kyle Clark of BETA, JoeBen Bevirt of JOBY, and Adam Goldstein of Archer Aviation. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(135); }); The panel will examine the sector’s current progress and future vision. Image Credit: Vertical Aerospace Milestones on the Horizon As Vertical advances toward certification and entry into service, the company has outlined several important upcoming targets: Critical Design Review (CDR): Expected completion by the end of 2026. This review will establish the certifiable design baseline and pave the way for building and testing certification-conforming aircraft. Industrialisation: Opening the early production aircraft assembly facility in Q3 2026, followed by expansion of the Vertical Energy Centre in Q4 2026. Hybrid-electric Programme: Selection of a long-term turbogenerator supplier during 2026, ahead of hybrid-electric flight testing in the first half of 2027. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(136); }); These planned achievements demonstrate Vertical’s clear and structured approach to bringing safe, sustainable electric flight to market. With strong partnerships, growing customer interest, and tangible technical progress, the company is well-positioned to play a leading role in the emerging advanced air mobility sector. Farnborough 2026 offers the public and industry stakeholders a unique opportunity to witness the future of aviation taking shape in real time. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(137); });
US F-47 Sixth-Gen Fighter Faces $300M Price Tag and Limited Fleet Size
The race to build the first sixth-generation fighter jet is well underway, with the United States and the People's Republic of China competing to be the first to produce a fully combat-capable example. While the People's Liberation Army Air Force made headlines in late 2024 by test-flying two different prototypes, the US program has been quietly testing new designs since 2019. When Boeing was awarded the contract for the F-47 Next Generation Air Dominance in early 2025, the program jumped into the spotlight.
Boeing posts strongest first-half aircraft deliveries since 2018 with 314 jets
Boeing delivered 314 commercial aircraft during the first half of 2026, its highest total for the period since 2018 as production of the 737 MAX continues to recover. The manufacturer handed over 171 aircraft during the second quarter, including 129 737s, 25 787 Dreamliners, 10 767s and seven 777s, Boeing said on July 14, 2026. Its first-half deliveries included 243 737s, 40 787s, 16 767s and 15 777s. Boeing delivered 64 commercial aircraft in June alone, up from 60 in May and 60 during the same month last year, according to company delivery data. The June total included 42 737 MAX aircraft and 13 787s. The stronger pace comes as Boeing raises output of the 737 MAX, its best-selling commercial aircraft. The company is moving monthly production from 42 aircraft toward 47, although deliveries can vary from month to month depending on inspections, customer schedules and work needed on aircraft already built. Boeing's 314 first-half deliveries were 12% higher than the 280 aircraft it handed over during the same period in 2025. Last year's first-half total had already marked a significant improvement after production disruptions and tighter regulatory oversight slowed deliveries earlier in the decade. Airbus remained ahead, delivering 351 aircraft during the first six months of 2026, including 89 in June. That was a 15% increase from the European manufacturer's first-half total a year earlier. Boeing's June 787 deliveries included five aircraft for Riyadh Air that had been delayed by issues involving seat certification. The Saudi carrier began revenue operations in June after receiving its first Dreamliners. The manufacturer also delivered three 777 freighters and five 767s during June. Three of the 767s will be converted into KC-46 aerial refueling tankers by Boeing's defense business. Boeing reported 121 gross commercial aircraft orders and eight cancellations during June, leaving 113 net orders for the month. Its first-half order total stood at 408 after cancellations and accounting adjustments. The company has now recorded 7,206 orders for the 737 MAX family, surpassing the 7,159 orders received for the previous-generation 737NG. Boeing separately reported 35 defense aircraft and satellite deliveries during the second quarter and 65 during the first half. The six-month total included 32 new or remanufactured AH-64 Apache helicopters, eight KC-46 tankers, eight CH-47 Chinooks and five F/A-18-family aircraft. Boeing cautioned that its delivery figures remain preliminary until it publishes its second-quarter financial results on July 28.
Embraer Highlights Record Growth and Diverse Portfolio at Farnborough 2026
Embraer, the Brazilian aerospace leader, is highlighting its robust expansion and market leadership at the Farnborough International Airshow 2026. The manufacturer arrives at one of the world’s premier aviation events with record-breaking financial metrics. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); }); This year sees a surging order backlog, and a diverse portfolio that spans commercial jets, executive aircraft, defence solutions, and sustainable aviation innovations. Recent performance underscores Embraer’s upward trajectory. In the first quarter of 2026, the company delivered 44 aircraft. This represented a notable 47% increase year-over-year. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(127); }); Its firm order backlog reached a new all-time high of US$32.1 billion. This marks the sixth consecutive record and reflecting broad-based demand across segments. Photo Credits: Embraer Driving Commercial Success with E-Jet Family Commercial Aviation, in particular, has seen significant growth, with the backlog climbing 50% year-on-year to around US$15 billion, fuelled by major wins such as Finnair’s order for up to 46 E195-E2 aircraft. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(128); }); Embraer’s E-Jets family continues to dominate the regional jet market. The E195-E2 and E175 models offer exceptional efficiency. They boast lower operating costs, and superior passenger comfort, making them ideal for airlines seeking to optimise regional routes. Recent certifications and orders from operators worldwide demonstrate strong customer confidence. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(129); }); At the Farnborough Airshow, visitors can explore how these aircraft deliver best-in-class performance while supporting airlines’ sustainability goals through reduced fuel consumption and emissions. Embraer’s focus on right-sized aircraft helps carriers fill gaps between larger narrowbodies and smaller turboprops, enhancing network flexibility and profitability. Executive Jets: Luxury Meets Innovation Embraer’s Executive Aviation division maintains its market leadership. This has been evident with the Phenom 300 series, which has topped global light jet deliveries for 14 consecutive years. Newer models like the Praetor 500E and Praetor 600E recently achieved triple certification from ANAC, FAA, and EASA, reinforcing their position in the midsize and super-midsize segments. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(130); }); These jets combine cutting edge technology, spacious cabins, and impressive range capabilities. Attendees at Farnborough will experience how Embraer is redefining private aviation with enhanced connectivity, superior performance, and a commitment to luxury without compromise. Defence and Security: Versatile Solutions Embraer’s Defence & Security portfolio, anchored by the KC-390 Millennium multi-mission transport and the A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft, attracts strong international interest. The KC-390 has proven its versatility in recent global demonstration tours and cold-weather campaigns, while ongoing partnerships expand maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities worldwide. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(131); }); These platforms offer cost-effective, high-performance solutions for air forces seeking modern capabilities in transport, refuelling, and intelligence missions. Embraer continues to build industrial cooperation agreements that support local economies and technology transfer. eVTOL Development Beyond traditional aircraft, Embraer continues to invest heavily in advanced air mobility. This is acheived through its Eve subsidiary, advancing eVTOL development for urban air mobility. The company also expands services and support networks to maximize fleet availability and customer satisfaction. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(132); }); Looking Ahead Embraer projects 240-255 total aircraft deliveries in 2026, with 80-85 in Commercial Aviation and 160-170 in Executive Aviation. This guidance, paired with a healthy backlog, positions the company for sustained profitable growth amid a recovering global aviation market. At Farnborough International Airshow, Embraer not only showcases its current strengths but also its vision for the future of aerospace—efficient, sustainable, and customer-focused. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(133); }); As demand for versatile, fuel-efficient aircraft rises, Embraer stands ready to meet it with proven products and innovative solutions. The airshow provides a perfect platform for Embraer to engage with airlines, operators, governments, and industry partners. With strong financials, record orders, and a clear strategic direction, the company demonstrates why it remains a key player in global aviation. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(134); });
The Daily Touch & Go
The day's best aviation news in your inbox. Free, no spam.