Boeing has unveiled its latest MQ-28 Block 3 Ghost Bat drone, which features a pair of internal weapons bays, at the ILA Berlin airshow on June 10, 2026, according to The War Zone.
What happened
The newly enhanced MQ-28 Block 3, displayed by Boeing Australia and Germany’s Rheinmetall, boasts significant upgrades over its predecessors. This version features a wing that is 25 percent larger and can accommodate munitions internally, preserving its low-observable characteristics.
“This is the aircraft that we are offering to Germany,” said Glen Ferguson, MQ-28 Global Program Director. The drone can carry an AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile or two Small Diameter Bombs, enhancing its operational versatility. Ferguson confirmed that the first Block 3 aircraft is expected to commence production next year.
The Block 3’s advancements include beyond-line-of-sight control, allowing operation at standoff distances. This capability is crucial in modern combat scenarios where maintaining distance from hostile environments is a priority. Ferguson elaborated, “Inclusion of features such as BLOS capability is a direct result of our learnings to date along with feedback from air forces.”
Why it matters
The introduction of the MQ-28 Block 3 represents a strategic shift in military drone capabilities, particularly for nations seeking to modernize their air forces. The internal weapons bays improve stealth operations, enabling the aircraft to carry munitions without compromising its radar cross-section. This advancement could increase its attractiveness to international clients, especially those focused on combat readiness in contested environments.
The Ghost Bat’s enhanced features align with ongoing trends in military technology, where autonomy and advanced weaponry are becoming essential for maintaining operational superiority. Countries looking to bolster their defensive and offensive capabilities will view the MQ-28 as a critical asset.
Background
On May 20, 2026, Boeing and Rheinmetall announced their partnership to promote the MQ-28 Ghost Bat to the German military, targeting a new class of collaborative combat aircraft. The MQ-28’s previous variants, Block 1 and Block 2, completed over 150 test sorties in several nations, laying the groundwork for further advancements.
Since its initial introduction, Australia has purchased eight Block 1 units as pre-production prototypes, with the Block 2 drones now in production and expected to lead to operational capabilities.
What’s next
Negotiations with the German government are ongoing, with expectations that a contract may be finalized by next year. Boeing aims to deliver the MQ-28 Ghost Bat to Germany by 2029, while preparing to introduce similar upgrades to the Royal Australian Air Force by 2028.
