USAF Seeks Budget-Friendly Supersonic Drones to Mimic Advanced Enemy Jets

The U.S. Air Force just put out a call for industry ideas, seeking new target drones that can fly at supersonic speeds of Mach 1.6 and beyond, specifically to mimic advanced stealth fighters, strategic bombers, and even drone swarms. This isn't just about speed; the Air Force wants these 'enemy' drones to be realistic enough to fool modern sensors and weapons, yet cheap enough to be shot down regularly during critical weapons testing and pilot training. The Request for Information (RFI) released on August 14, 2026, highlights a major push to adapt to evolving global threats. This urgent upgrade stems from the fact that the Air Force's current target drones, like the BQM-167A and converted QF-16, just aren't cutting it against the latest threats from adversaries like China, which fields advanced stealth jets like the J-20 and H6 bombers. The new target drones need to accurately copy everything from radar and infrared signals to electronic attack capabilities, ensuring that US air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles are tested against the real deal. This move is part of a larger strategy to maintain a decisive edge in the air, connecting with other initiatives like the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program that focuses on advanced uncrewed systems. Companies have until September 28 to submit their proposals, and the Air Force is especially keen on 'non-traditional' and 'commercially derived' solutions to keep costs down and make these sophisticated targets easily scalable. This means we could see innovative approaches from smaller tech firms, alongside established players like Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, who are already heavily involved in drone technology and propulsion. The success of this program will directly impact how quickly and effectively the U.S. can develop and test its next-generation aerial combat systems, preparing for future conflicts in a rapidly changing battlespace.