Target Drones

The LI 10TRGT - Target Drones program is a key line item in the Air Force's Aircraft Procurement budget, focused on providing full-scale and subscale aerial targets to support critical testing and evaluation of U.S. weapon systems. The overarching goal of this program is to ensure that warfighters' missile and aircraft systems are validated against realistic, threat-representative targets, in compliance with Title 10, Section 2366 Live Fire/Lethality test requirements. This capability is essential for both developmental and operational testing, enabling the Air Force and other services to assess the effectiveness of air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles, as well as fighter aircraft updates and upgrades.

The program's objectives include the procurement and sustainment of Full-Scale Aerial Targets (FSAT), such as the QF-16, and Subscale Aerial Targets (SSAT), notably the BQM-167A (AFSAT). These targets emulate enemy fighters and cruise missiles, providing realistic scenarios for testing systems like the AIM-260, AIM-120, AIM-9X, PAC-3, FIM-92 Stinger, and platforms including the F-35, F-22A, F-18, F-16, and F-15. By providing these assets, the program supports the development of offensive counter-air capabilities and ensures readiness against evolving airborne threats.

The QF-16 program is transitioning from procurement to a sustainment-focused posture. In FY 2024, funds supported the transition and production shutdown activities, but for FY 2025 and FY 2026, no new procurement or major rework is planned. QF-16 targets are converted F-16 aircraft equipped for unmanned operation, allowing live-fire testing against a realistic, maneuverable target. The Air Force serves as the executive agent for this capability, ensuring that full-scale targets remain available for required testing and evaluation.

The AFSAT line is the primary procurement focus for FY 2026, with funding allocated to acquire new production assets, along with associated support equipment and engineering services. The BQM-167A is a jet-powered, remotely piloted target drone manufactured by Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems in Sacramento, CA. These subscale targets are essential for simulating advanced enemy aircraft and cruise missiles, supporting both Air Force and Navy test requirements. The Navy is the lead service for subscale targets, while the Air Force manages procurement for its own needs.

The program also funds the Target Control System (TCS) and scoring systems, which are critical for controlling, monitoring, and assessing target drone performance during tests. TCS modernization efforts ensure interoperability across service ranges, secure data links, and support for emulating 5th and 6th generation threats. Investments in hardware and software upgrades address identified capability gaps, enabling more realistic and secure testing environments.

Additional objectives include addressing production and sustainment challenges, such as Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS) and obsolescence issues. Funding may be used for studies, bridge buys, life-of-type purchases, supplier qualification, and requalification of production lines to maintain future production capabilities. These efforts preserve the ability to meet current and emerging threat scenarios, ensuring that testing assets remain relevant and available.

The FY 2026 budget request reflects a reduction in Advisory and Assistance Services, aligning with Executive Order 14222 to promote government efficiency. The program supports mandated financial audit requirements and is documented under Program Element 0305116F. The LI 10TRGT - Target Drones program is a foundational element for Air Force and joint service weapon system validation, supporting readiness and modernization through the procurement and sustainment of advanced aerial targets and associated systems.