Boeing has announced significant upgrades to its MQ-28 Ghost Bat Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), including the addition of internal weapons bays and an extended wingspan. The global program director, Glen Ferguson, revealed these enhancements during a media briefing at the Singapore Airshow on March 15, 2024. The upgraded Block 3 version will enable the aircraft to carry advanced munitions, such as the AIM-120 medium-range air-to-air missile and the Small Diameter Bomb.
Ferguson emphasized that the only limitation on the types of payloads the Ghost Bat can carry is physical size. The aircraft’s modular design and open architecture allow for a diverse range of weapons to be integrated, provided they fit within the newly designed bays. “It’s really up to the customers what they want,” he stated, highlighting the flexibility of the platform. This customization extends to the nose of the aircraft, where different payloads can be accommodated based on user preferences or mission requirements. These options include electronic warfare systems and infrared search and track capabilities.
Expansion in Design and Capabilities
In addition to its new weaponry capabilities, the Block 3 version of the Ghost Bat will feature an increased wingspan, expanding from 6 meters to 7.3 meters, or approximately 20 to 24 feet. This change is expected to enhance the aircraft’s fuel capacity, resulting in a greater operational range. Boeing is currently developing the Ghost Bat for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), which has placed an order for an additional seven aircraft. The first of these Block 3-configured aircraft is slated for delivery in 2028, aimed at establishing an operational capability.
Ferguson also noted international interest in the Ghost Bat, revealing ongoing discussions with numerous potential customers. A notable collaboration was announced between Australia and Japan to work together on the program, following a bilateral defense ministers’ meeting scheduled for September 2025. This partnership aims to leverage the CCA’s modular design, allowing foreign users to integrate their own capabilities onto the platform.
Customizable Solutions for Global Partners
The flexibility inherent in the Ghost Bat’s design is a key selling point for international clients. Ferguson explained that foreign users will have the opportunity to implement their own sensors and weapons systems, negating the need for extensive involvement from Boeing as would typically be required for a traditional crewed platform. “That sovereign capability and development is all about partnerships and relationships,” he remarked. Boeing aims to foster close collaborations with other nations that are seeking to enhance their combat capabilities through the adoption of CCAs.
The enhancements to the MQ-28 Ghost Bat reflect Boeing’s commitment to advancing aerial combat technology. With the introduction of new capabilities and the potential for broader international partnerships, the Ghost Bat is positioned to play a significant role in modern military operations.
