U.S. Air Force Targets 2028 MMA Strike Drone Prototypes to Replace MQ-9 Reapers in Combat Missions

The U.S. Air Force is targeting operational Massed Modular Aircraft drone prototypes in 2028, followed by large-scale production beginning in 2029, officials said at AUSA on October 14, 2026. The service aims to introduce approximately 100 aircraft by 2029 and expand toward 500 by 2032 for reconnaissance and strike missions now performed partly by MQ-9 Reapers. The target airframe price is approximately $10 million, excluding weapons, sensors and mission equipment, with the Defense Innovation Unit supporting acquisition. Development contracts have been awarded, but officials did not identify the recipients or disclose their values.