Anduril's unmanned jet "Fury" makes first flight

Defense Industry Innovation - Andre, a defense tech startup, has developed Fury, a semi-autonomous jet fighter that operates without a pilot, marking a significant advancement in unmanned aerial vehicle technology [1][2] - Fury is designed as a collaborative combat aircraft (CCA), utilizing AI to work alongside piloted fighter jets, enhancing combat capabilities and pilot safety [2][3] - Andre's Fury completed a successful test flight, demonstrating self-control over throttle, altitude, and navigation under ground supervision [5] Production and Cost Efficiency - Andre aims for mass production of Fury jets in the United States, potentially at a lower cost than traditional fighter jets, by simplifying design and using readily available commercial components [6][7] - Fury's design incorporates easily sourced parts, such as landing gear that can be built in any machine shop in America and a commercial business jet engine, ensuring supply chain resilience [7] Strategic Competition - Andre views its primary competition as hostile foreign powers, particularly China, rather than other defense contractors, emphasizing the urgency of developing advanced defense technologies [9][10] - The development of lethal autonomous weapons raises moral considerations, but proponents argue that smart weapons are preferable to indiscriminate weapons like landmines [12][13] Air Force Initiatives - The Air Force is rapidly advancing its plan for autonomous wingmen, as evidenced by the first flight of General Atomics' YFQ42A in August, alongside Andre's Fury [8][9] - The Pentagon selected Andre as one of two companies to create a CCA, highlighting the company's innovative approach and potential impact on future air warfare [5]