Rheinmetall and Boeing Australia have signed a strategic partnership to address the German Federal Armed Forces’ (Bundeswehr) need for a “Collaborative Combat Aircraft” (CCA). Announced on March 31, 2026, the cooperation aims to offer the modern Ghost Bat MQ-28 platform to Germany. In addition, the partnership seeks to support the country’s goal of bringing this capability into service by 2029.
System Integration and Local Value Creation
Within the scope of the agreement, Rheinmetall will assume a critical role as the system integrator for the advanced MQ-28 Ghost Bat in Germany. The company will be responsible for integrating the platform into the Bundeswehr’s current and future command-and-control and weapon systems. Furthermore, the company will also be responsible for operational support, maintenance, and logistics processes. Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger stated that this strategic move represents revenue potential worth hundreds of millions of euros for the company. He also emphasized that the initiative will enhance national value creation and strengthen supply security in Germany.
Operational Capabilities and Technological Infrastructure
Developed by Boeing Australia and having successfully completed more than 150 flights to date, this MQ-28 air system, called the Ghost Bat, stands out as a proven CCA platform with autonomous capabilities. The system can operate in teaming with crewed aircraft and enhances combat power in high-threat environments. Moreover, its open and modular architecture allows for continuous upgrades and the integration of new capabilities. As part of the partnership, German and Australian engineers will jointly conduct testing and validation activities. They will do this through a newly established digital ecosystem. As a result, this ensures full compliance with German requirements.
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Source: C4Defence-Rheinmetall
