Airbus will unveil its innovative Wingman concept at the upcoming International Aerospace Exhibition ILA in Berlin. Traditionally in military aviation, a “Wingman” is a pilot in a separate aircraft tasked with supporting the lead pilot, expanding tactical options, and enhancing mission success. In Airbus’ interpretation, the Wingman functions similarly, though it differs in that it’s not piloted nor is it a manned fighter jet. Instead, it’s a drone designed for combat operations, commanded by a pilot from a current combat aircraft like the Eurofighter. This drone can undertake high-risk missions, ones that might endanger manned aircraft.
The 1:1 model, to be showcased from June 5 to 9 at ILA, resembles the concept of a “show car” seen in the automotive industry—a design exercise illustrating potential capabilities rather than a final product. The Wingman model exhibits envisioned features such as stealth, integration of various armaments, advanced sensors, connectivity, and collaborative capabilities. As with show cars, not all features displayed may transition to production. However, the ILA exhibit serves as a blueprint, guiding future iterations of the Wingman.
As per the current plan, the Wingman aims to enhance the capabilities of existing manned combat aircraft by integrating unmanned platforms capable of carrying weapons and executing missions effectively.
“The German Air Force has expressed a clear need for an unmanned aircraft flying with and supporting missions of its manned fighter jets before the Future Combat Air System will be operational in 2040,” said Michael Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space. “Our Wingman concept is the answer. We will further drive and fine-tune this innovation made in Germany so that ultimately we can offer the German Air Force an affordable solution with the performance it needs to maximise the effects and multiply the power of its fighter fleet for the 2030s.”
The Wingman’s duties span from reconnaissance to jamming targets and engaging both ground and aerial targets with precision-guided munitions or missiles. Pilots in manned aircraft, designated as “command fighters,” retain full control over the mission, serving as the ultimate decision-makers. However, they benefit from reduced risk exposure by delegating tactical tasks to unmanned systems. The primary aim is to augment combat capabilities affordably, enabling air forces to match or surpass the opposing forces’ numbers in peer or near-peer conflicts.
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