Northrop Grumman has been selected to develop the U.S. Marine Corps’ next-generation Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), known as the MUX TACAIR program. The company will combine its advanced mission systems and autonomy software with Kratos Defense & Security Solutions’ Valkyrie unmanned aerial system (UAS) to rapidly field a new combat drone. This drone is designed to operate alongside crewed fighter jets, providing enhanced capabilities and mass in high-threat environments.
The award centers on a partnership that leverages the strengths of both corporations. Northrop Grumman will provide its core technologies, which include an advanced, cost-effective mission kit packed with sensors and software-defined systems. This flexible payload suite enables the drone to perform various kinetic and non-kinetic effects, adapting to different mission needs. Managing the aircraft’s operations will be Northrop Grumman’s open architecture autonomy software, known as Prism.
These sophisticated systems will be integrated onto Kratos’ XQ-58A Valkyrie, a low-cost, runway-independent UAS with a proven flight record. The Valkyrie offers a modular airframe and payload bays, allowing for mission customization and enhanced operational flexibility for expeditionary Marine forces.
Key to the offering is speed and reduced risk. Northrop Grumman emphasizes that it has repackaged its proven sensor and mission capabilities into a smaller, more affordable envelope suitable for unmanned platforms. By integrating existing, demonstrated systems—including more than 20 successful flight tests in operationally relevant conditions—the team aims to provide the Marine Corps with a clear and expedited path to initial operational capability.
“Northrop Grumman remains at the forefront of advanced sensing capabilities, delivering innovative solutions that meet the needs of the warfighter with unmatched speed and reliability,” said Krys Moen, vice president of advanced mission capabilities at Northrop Grumman.
Steve Fendley, president of Kratos Unmanned Systems Division, highlighted the strategic advantage of the partnership: “The integration of the Kratos Valkyrie aircraft system configured with the world’s best multifunction mission systems from Northrop Grumman results in a high-capability CCA at a price point that enables the uncrewed systems to be deployed in mass with crewed aircraft.”
The resulting platform is designed to deliver a complete package of survivability, connectivity, lethality, and supportability. The MUX TACAIR CCA is intended to be a force multiplier, enabling persistent, joint expeditionary operations for the Marine Corps in future conflicts.
