Europe Accelerates Development of AI-Powered Wingman Drones as Future Air Combat Takes Shape
The future of aerial warfare took center stage at last week’s Berlin Airshow, where defense companies showcased a new generation of artificial intelligence-powered “wingman” drones designed to fly alongside fighter jets and dramatically expand their combat capabilities.
As military planners around the world study lessons from modern conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine, unmanned systems have emerged as one of the most significant developments in warfare. The growing effectiveness of drones, combined with the increasing importance of electronic warfare and battlefield data networks, has pushed defense manufacturers in Europe and the United States to invest heavily in collaborative combat aircraft, commonly known as wingman drones.
The technology was among the most closely watched exhibits at the Berlin event, where major defense firms presented competing visions of how future air forces could combine manned and unmanned aircraft into highly connected combat formations. Companies including Airbus, Boeing, Helsing and General Atomics used the exhibition to promote their latest designs to military officials, defense experts and potential international customers.
Wingman drones, also referred to as collaborative combat aircraft, are designed to operate in close coordination with traditional fighter jets. Unlike conventional drones that are often controlled remotely from distant locations, these systems are intended to work as intelligent partners for human pilots. They can carry sensors, weapons, surveillance equipment, communication systems and electronic warfare payloads while flying alongside crewed aircraft during missions.
Military strategists see the concept as a way to increase combat power without placing additional pilots at risk. Depending on the mission, wingman aircraft can scout ahead of fighter formations, identify threats, jam enemy radar systems, gather intelligence or even engage hostile targets before a manned aircraft enters dangerous airspace.
The size and capabilities of these aircraft vary significantly. Some designs resemble small interceptor drones, while others are nearly as large as traditional fighter aircraft. Despite their differences, they share the same objective: extending the reach, survivability and effectiveness of crewed military aircraft.
The rapid pace of development comes as Europe faces a broader debate over defense independence and military self-sufficiency. Governments across the continent have increased defense spending amid concerns about regional security and questions regarding long-term reliance on American military technology. Many policymakers argue that Europe must strengthen its domestic defense industry and ensure that critical technologies, particularly those involving artificial intelligence, remain under European control.
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