At the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow, BAE Systems of the UK officially unveiled the full-scale prototype of its newly developed Brontanax autonomous attack aircraft. As the UK's first indigenously designed Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), the debut of Brontanax marks a significant step forward in the UK's development of next-generation air power. Designed to serve as a 'loyal wingman' for manned fighters, this unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) boasts highly autonomous flight capabilities and can perform tasks such as electronic warfare and precision strikes. Featuring a stealth design and resembling a scaled-down version of the 'Tempest' sixth-generation fighter, the Brontanax is estimated to cost around $25 million per unit, just one-fourth the cost of a Typhoon fighter jet, yet capable of performing 70% to 80% of its missions. Its internal weapons bay is compatible with weapons currently in service with the British military, such as the Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile. Each manned fighter can simultaneously control up to five Brontanax drones, forming a 'manned-unmanned teaming' formation to enhance overall combat effectiveness. BAE Systems emphasizes its open architecture and modular design, facilitating rapid upgrades to software and mission systems. The project has attracted the participation of nearly 100 UK-based suppliers, ensuring a secure and autonomous supply chain. The first full-scale prototype has been assembled at the Warton factory and is expected to complete system power-on in the third quarter of 2026, with its maiden flight scheduled for 2027 and a goal of entering formal service before 2030.