X-BAT autonomous VTOL fighter development accelerates

Development of the X-BAT autonomous VTOL fighter is accelerating with an aggressive testing timeline that company officials confirm may see at least one airframe lost. The program includes using a thrust vectoring nozzle borrowed from an experimental F-16 aircraft in what's described as an "Indiana Jones style" acquisition. The X-BAT represents a significant advancement in autonomous combat aircraft technology for the United States. Testing is expected to continue through 2026 as the program pushes forward despite acknowledged risks.