Germany to Get MQ-28 Ghost Bat Combat Drones by 2029

Cooperation between Rheinmetall and Boeing Australia Unmanned Combat Drones for the German Air Force by 2029

2026-04-03 From Veronika Maucher 1 min Reading Time

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The Bundeswehr is to be equipped by 2029 with an autonomous combat drone system produced in Australia. Defence contractor Rheinmetall and Boeing Australia have entered into a strategic partnership for this purpose, Rheinmetall announced in Düsseldorf.

The Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat at 2023 Avalon Airshow.(Photo: Wiki Commons) — The Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat at 2023 Avalon Airshow.
(Photo: Wiki Commons)

In its search for the next-generation combat aircraft system, the Bundeswehr may therefore have made something of a preliminary decision. Unmanned combat drones also form part of the FCAS project with France, which has long been the subject of disputes between the industrial partners on both sides. The drone, known as the MQ-28 "Ghost Bat”, was developed by Boeing Australia together with the Royal Australian Air Force and, following a successful test last year, is currently being integrated into the Australian armed forces.

Procurement of some hundred systems planned

The Bundeswehr intends to procure hundreds of MQ-28 "Ghost Bat" systems. During his most recent visit to Australia, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius inspected the Ghost Bats.Unlike inexpensive kamikaze drones, such as those currently used by Iran and in the war in Ukraine, the “Ghost Bat” is designed to operate alongside manned jets and return to base after deployment. The MQ-28 has already completed more than 150 flights and provided the Royal Australian Air Force with operationally relevant capabilities. Most recently, this culminated in a unique demonstration in which an aerial target was autonomously engaged and destroyed.

Rheinmetall acts as system integrator in Germany

As part of the partnership with Boeing Australia, Rheinmetall will assume the role of system manager for the combat drone in Germany. According to the company, the Düsseldorf-based defence group will oversee integration of the system into the Bundeswehr’s existing and future command and weapons systems, as well as adaptation to national requirements. Rheinmetall will also ensure operational, maintenance, and logistical support.

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