The US military recently demonstrated significant advances in controlling uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs), signaling efforts to maintain technological superiority over China in a domain increasingly critical to future warfare. Two separate tests conducted in October showcased new methods of commanding drones over long distances, underscoring the potential impact of these technologies on air and naval operations in the Indo-Pacific region.

In one demonstration on October 16, an F-22 fighter pilot remotely controlled a YFQ-44A combat drone during flight, assigning tasks to the autonomous platform while its onboard software executed maneuvers independently. This trial expanded on previous efforts, including a 2025 test where an F-22 pilot commanded a General Atomics MQ-20 Avenger drone, highlighting the growing integration of drones with crewed fighters.

Meanwhile, the US Navy conducted a test aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan, where operators used satellite links to command an MQ-25A refueling drone at a Boeing facility in Illinois, more than 3,380 kilometers away. This development marks progress in extending the operational range of carrier-based drones beyond traditional radio communication limits, potentially allowing for increased flexibility in maritime operations.

Experts emphasize that these innovations could enhance US forces’ ability to track and engage targets while keeping manned aircraft and vessels out of range of enemy defenses. Drones can act as scouts, decoys, or carry specialized sensors and weaponry, thus complicating the targeting efforts of adversaries and reducing risk to human pilots. They may also force adversaries such as the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to expend resources dealing with multiple potential threats, degrading their overall defensive capabilities.

However, specialists caution that the effectiveness of these systems depends on maintaining secure and reliable communications links. Chinese capabilities in electronic warfare, including jamming and potential anti-satellite attacks, pose risks to these operations. Satellite-controlled drones, in particular, may be vulnerable to electronic interference and cyber disruptions.

China is reportedly advancing similar technologies. State-linked aerospace manufacturer AVIC revealed its two-seat J-20S stealth fighter could coordinate with drones in combat, and the PLA has showcased its GJ-11 stealth attack drone operating alongside crewed fighters, although details on operational integration remain limited. Intelligence assessments indicate ongoing efforts by the PLA Air Force’s 9th Aviation Brigade to develop tactics involving crewed-uncrewed teaming, with progress still facing challenges in areas such as operator training, multi-drone coordination, and sustaining communications under electronic attack.

Analysts suggest that while integrating drones with fighters is important, China may rely more heavily on missile systems and other forces for power projection near its mainland, such as around Taiwan. The US maintains opposition to any forceful change in the status of Taiwan and continues to supply defensive weapons to the island, which it does not officially recognize as an independent state.

As the US and China both pursue enhanced drone warfare capabilities, the outcome of this technological competition will hinge on advances in command and control systems, resilience against electronic warfare, and the ability to effectively integrate autonomous platforms into combat operations.