Coming soon, a military “flight of our” may very well be four aircraft and one pilot. The U. S. Air Force is planning to integrate unmanned “low-cost, disposable fighters” into tactical and strategic missions with manned aircraft. Not having to equip an aircraft with pilot flight controls, instrumentation, life support systems, and ejection seats will significantly reduce the cost of fighter aircraft.
At the 2019 Defense News conference, Air Force officials revealed that they are developing what they called “low-cost, single-use aircraft.” Also described as “reusable” and “disposable” combat aircraft.
Described as “force multipliers,” 30 capable unmanned combat aircraft could be fielded for the price on one F-35. They will be equipped with the same advanced combat systems, an array of sensors, and possess the same, or greater maneuverability, than manned fighters.
The U. S. Military already has extensive experience with unmanned aircraft used for intelligence gathering, surveillance, and limited ground attack. Fighter and advanced attack roles are the next logical step.