In a groundbreaking demonstration that could redefine modern warfare, Performance Drone Works (PDW) showcased its C100 quadcopter coordinating precision strikes with the F-35 fighter jet. This innovative integration allows low-cost, expendable drones to illuminate targets, enabling the F-35 to engage from a standoff distance—eliminating the need for manned aircraft to risk exposure.

The July test revealed the C100’s capabilities as it successfully marked targets using a laser designator before the F-35A Lightning II unleashed four inert GBU-12 Paveway II bombs with pinpoint accuracy. The C100 loitered for nearly 35 minutes, illuminating targets at ranges of up to 2,000 meters, showcasing a new tactical flexibility that promises to enhance operational reach while minimizing risks to pilots and expensive aircraft.

PDW CEO Ryan Guri emphasized the significance of this demonstration, stating that the C100 represents a leap in tactical capabilities, allowing operators to conduct joint fires without the need for supporting aircraft. The drone’s modular design supports various payloads and integrates seamlessly with advanced targeting systems, making it a game-changer in air combat.

As the U.S. military phases out the aging A-10 Warthogs, the C100 paired with the F-35 emerges as a formidable alternative, capable of executing autonomous missions while maintaining stealth and speed. This shift not only addresses evolving combat demands but also paves the way for a new air warfare doctrine where drones take on high-risk roles, enabling manned fighters to focus on precision strikes from safe distances.

With the stakes higher than ever, the implications of this technology extend beyond mere combat efficiency; they signal a transformative era in military strategy, one where drones and advanced aircraft work in concert to dominate the battlefield. The future of warfare is here, and it is unmanned.