US Air Force Plans to Arm Drones with Small Cruise Missiles

The U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) is working to integrate small cruise missiles into MQ-9 Reaper drones, according to a report by Defence One.

In addition to drones, the command also plans to arm the newly adopted OA-1K Skyraider II light attack aircraft with the same type of missile.

A command official described the effort as an “ambitious vision,” building on previous cooperation with the defense contractor Leidos.

The Black Arrow missile, developed in partnership with Leidos, was previously tested on the AC-130 gunship.

Testing concluded successfully in March, raising the possibility that the weapon could be deployed on additional platforms.

This approach is fully consistent with the command’s strategy: to enhance capability through cost-effective upgrades to existing platforms and munitions, rather than investing in expensive new systems.

A key focus is increasing effectiveness against enemy air defense systems, where affordability is a critical factor.

Development of the Black Arrow missile was launches in 2021, and a research and development agreement was signed with U.S. Special Operations Command the following year.

Leidos holds a contract to continue development and testing of the missile through the end of 2025.

The missile visually resembles Lockheed Martin’s CMMT (Common Multi-Mission Truck) missile family.

However, technical specifications, including its range, warhead type, and guidance system, remain classified.