U.S. Navy Goes Big On CCAs For Future Carrier Air Wing

Naval Air Systems Command has asked industry for two fully functional Collaborative Combat Aircraft prototypes able to operate autonomously from both Nimitz- and Ford-class carriers. The Increment 1 requirement describes a fighter-sized aircraft capable of carrying four external weapons weighing up to 2,500 pounds each, while respondents must also address internal carriage and survivability. The Navy wants a first flight within 24 months of award and shore-based carrier certification during a three-year effort. This is a request for information defining a prototype programme, not a production contract.