Collaborative Combat Aircraft

The Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, as outlined in Program Element (PE) 0207147F, is an Air Force initiative focused on the research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) of uncrewed weapon systems designed to enhance the capabilities of crewed aircraft in achieving air superiority. The primary objective of the CCA program is to mature and integrate advanced technologies that enable uncrewed systems to operate in concert with crewed platforms. This integration aims to improve mission effectiveness, survivability, and lethality in contested environments. The effort leverages previous science and technology investments to reduce risk through targeted development, integration, and testing activities.

Key goals for the CCA program include the development of mission-integrated autonomy, multi-platform interoperability, and cost-effective solutions for air superiority missions. The program emphasizes digital engineering, agile software development, and open systems architectures to facilitate rapid prototyping and integration of new capabilities. Supported activities include operational concept exploration, technology studies, multi-domain integration, operational assessments, architecture development, integrated weapon systems development, and demonstration of air superiority-related technologies. These efforts are intended to mature CCA concepts and provide validated solutions to current and emerging threats.

Project 640017: Collaborative Combat Aircraft is the primary line item under PE 0207147F, with funding allocated for FY 2025 and FY 2026. The project encompasses studies and analyses, identification of technology candidates, concept refinement, technology maturation and risk reduction, weapon systems development, integration, testing, prototyping, demonstrations, and crewed-uncrewed systems integration. Mandatory funds are specifically directed toward addressing air superiority requirements.

The CCA program also includes investments in information technology, test and training infrastructure, and program management support. Program management costs cover contractor support services, civilian pay, supplies, and facility-related expenses. The program allows for civilian pay expenses beyond those budgeted in related program elements, reflecting the need for dedicated personnel to manage and execute the delivery of weapon system capabilities.

The acquisition strategy for the CCA program is built around a multi-domain capabilities framework. Cross-functional teams conduct analysis, demonstrations, and experiments to quantify the operational value of alternative concepts and technologies. This approach is designed to address capability gaps in air superiority by providing solutions that are adaptable to evolving threats and Air Force priorities. The program is managed under Budget Activity 4: Advanced Component Development and Prototypes (ACD&P), which supports the evaluation of integrated technologies and prototype systems in realistic operating environments.

Funding adjustments in FY 2025 included a transfer from the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program to align with congressional direction and an increase due to distributed adjustment per DD1414. The funding profile reflects a strategic emphasis on accelerating the design, build, and test of weapon systems to achieve the program's priority of speed to ramp, enabling rapid fielding of CCA capabilities. Contract specifics and additional acquisition details are not available at the current security classification.