Boeing’s Australian “Loyal Wingman” Aircraft Achieves Milestone with Successful First Taxi Run

The Boeing Loyal Wingman aircraft, developed in partnership with the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), has recently achieved a significant milestone by moving under its own power for the first time. This advancement marks a crucial step as the aircraft prepares for its inaugural flight later this year.

“The Air Force collaborates with industry to innovate and meet our future objectives,” stated Air Vice-Marshal Cath Roberts, Head of Air Force Capability at RAAF. “The Boeing Loyal Wingman project exemplifies the success of this cooperative approach.”

“Watching the prototype on the runway during this low-speed taxi test is an exhilarating moment—a pivotal milestone leading up to its first flight,” she added.

The Boeing Loyal Wingman successfully completed its initial taxi test, reaching a maximum speed of 14 knots (about 16 mph or 26 kilometers per hour). The aircraft effectively demonstrated various maneuverability tasks while stopping on command.

Paul Ryder, Boeing Australia Flight Test Manager, commented, “This low-speed taxi test allowed us to confirm the functionality and integration of key aircraft systems, such as steering, braking, and engine controls, while the aircraft was in motion.”

Three Loyal Wingman prototypes will serve as the backbone for the Airpower Teaming System, which Boeing aims to provide to customers globally.

This aircraft is designed to operate in conjunction with other platforms, utilizing artificial intelligence for collaborative missions. With an advanced design and superior flight characteristics, it features a modular nose section that can be tailored for specific operational needs and a conventional takeoff and landing capability, making it versatile for various missions and runway conditions.

“The aircraft’s runway independence ensures it will be a flexible and adaptive solution for our global clientele,” explained Dr. Shane Arnott, Program Director, Boeing Airpower Teaming System. “This latest test represents the first complete unmanned movement of the Loyal Wingman alongside our Australian partners, bringing us closer to its inaugural flight.”