Boeing’s Autonomous Loyal Wingman Soars into Action with First High-Speed Taxi Trial

Boeing Australia, in collaboration with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), has successfully conducted the initial high-speed taxi test of the innovative Loyal Wingman, paving the way for its inaugural flight.

During this pivotal test, Boeing’s team meticulously monitored the aircraft’s performance and instrumentation from a ground control station, ensuring optimal functionality as the Loyal Wingman reached accelerated speeds. This advanced uncrewed aircraft has undergone extensive low-, medium-, and high-speed taxi tests at a specialized remote testing site in Australia.

“Our testing program is progressing remarkably well, and we are pleased with the ground test data we have accumulated thus far,” stated Paul Ryder, Boeing’s Flight Test Manager. “We are collaborating closely with the Air Warfare Centre to finalize test verifications, as we prepare for flight testing next year.”

Boeing and the Royal Australian Air Force are set to resume final taxi tests and flight preparations in early 2021, coinciding with the range’s reopening.

RAAF Head of Air Force Capability, Air Vice-Marshal Cath Roberts, expressed her excitement after witnessing the aircraft in action during the December trials. “Experiencing this aircraft first-hand was extraordinary,” she remarked.

“There’s something truly remarkable about testing an aircraft that revolutionizes technology. It stands out in its own right,” Roberts continued. “The enthusiasm exhibited by the Boeing and Air Force teams brought back memories from my early career in aircraft testing.”

“This embodies the essence of innovation—collaborating to achieve groundbreaking milestones,” she added.

Over 35 Australian suppliers have played vital roles in the Loyal Wingman’s development, including the investment partner BAE Systems Australia, which has worked alongside the Boeing test team on-site.

“In just the past year, we have made incredible advancements, evolving this project from a basic fuselage to a fully developed aircraft that has undergone rigorous evaluations,” said Dr. Shane Arnott, Program Director for the Boeing Airpower Teaming System. “Our current focus is to implement a safe and secure flight-test protocol for the Loyal Wingman initiative.”

Boeing stands as the largest aerospace company globally and a primary provider of commercial airplanes, defense, space, security systems, and comprehensive global services. As a leading U.S. exporter, Boeing supports both commercial and government clients across over 150 nations. Building on a legacy of aerospace excellence, the company is committed to advancing technology and innovation, meeting customer needs, and investing in its workforce and future growth.