Scaled Composites completed the maiden flight of its latest experimental aircraft, the Model 437 Vanguard.  

The Model 437 Vanguard is a technology demonstrator of multi-mission, low-cost, attritable aircraft that emphasizes affordability and reusability in high-risk environments. This concept, colloquially known as “loyal wingman”, aims to undertake high-risk missions while minimizing danger to human pilots. Relying on attritable drones to keep pilots and their pricey machines away from the action is central to the upcoming 6th generation of fighter jets.  

The presence of a cockpit on the Model 437 prototype, registered N437VN, raises questions about whether it suggests a crewed version of the final model or if it is just for facilitating flight testing. Colin Miller, Vice President for Engineering at Northrop Grumman Aeronautics, declined to comment when asked about this by The War Zone

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