In a groundbreaking shift poised to redefine aerial combat, the future of fighter jet drones has arrived, showcasing a formidable array of advanced technologies that could render manned fighter jets obsolete. As nations race to develop these lethal machines, the spotlight is on a new generation of jet-propelled drones that blend speed, stealth, and artificial intelligence, signaling a seismic transformation in warfare.

Leading the charge is South Korea’s LOWUS, set to debut in 2027, a stealthy wingman drone designed to operate alongside the KF-21 fighter, featuring advanced sensors and a modular payload system. Meanwhile, India’s HAL CATS Warrior aims for its maiden flight by 2025, designed to enhance manned missions with near-supersonic capabilities and stealth features. Turkey’s Bayraktar Kızılelma, expected in 2025, promises high maneuverability and carrier capabilities, while the TAI Anka-3, which took its maiden flight in late 2023, is optimized for deep strike missions with a significant munitions capacity.

China is not far behind, with the GJ-11 Sharp Sword and the Feihong FH-97A, both designed for high-risk operations and boasting advanced AI-assisted autonomy. The AVIC Dark Sword, a conceptual supersonic drone, remains under scrutiny as it develops, while the Kronshtadt Grom aims to support Russian fighters with its stealthy design.

European collaboration is also evident in the Airbus Wingman, a next-gen drone targeting operational readiness by the early 2030s. The U.S. Air Force is advancing its Collaborative Combat Aircraft program with the YFQ-42A and YFQ-44 “Fury,” both designed to enhance crewed fighters with stealthy, high-speed capabilities.

As these drones prepare to enter service, the military landscape is on the brink of a revolution. The question looms large: will the era of manned fighter jets come to an end? The race is on, and the implications for global security are staggering. Stay tuned as we continue to track these developments closely.