Northrop Grumman unveils optionally manned Vanguard drone to boost U.S. Air Force capabilities

Northrop Grumman has developed the Model 437 Vanguard, an optionally manned drone, to enhance U.S. Air Force capabilities. This new aircraft can operate autonomously or with a pilot, offering flexibility in design and mission execution. The Vanguard's first flight occurred on August 29, 2024. It features a range of 3,000 nautical miles, a payload capacity of 2,000 pounds, and is powered by a Pratt & Whitney engine. Its development is notably faster and cheaper than traditional manned aircraft. Northrop Grumman aims to produce the Vanguard for $5-6 million per unit, significantly lower than other military drones. The use of digital engineering and 3D printing has streamlined the design process, reducing typical changes from 15-20% to just 1%.