FQ-42 Dark Merlin vs MQ-28 Ghost Bat
Overview
The FQ-42 Dark Merlin and the MQ-28 Ghost Bat are both Military Drones, manufactured by General Atomics and Boeing respectively.
The MQ-28 Ghost Bat first flew 4 years before the FQ-42 Dark Merlin (2021 vs 2025).
| American jet-powered collaborative combat aircraft developed by General Atomics, selected by the U.S. Air Force to fly air-to-air missions alongside crewed fighters under the CCA program. | |
| Origin country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Category | Military Drones |
| Manufacturer | General Atomics |
| First flight | 27 August 2025 |
| Year introduced | -- |
| Number produced | N/A |
| Average unit price | -- |
| Australian stealth multirole unmanned combat aerial vehicle, developed in the early 2020s, designed to support crewed aircraft as a loyal wingman and perform autonomous missions. | |
| Origin country | 🇦🇺 Australia |
| Category | Military Drones |
| Manufacturer | Boeing |
| First flight | 27 February 2021 |
| Year introduced | 2024 |
| Number produced | 8 units |
| Average unit price | -- |
| Wingspan | -- m |
| Length | -- m |
| Operational range | -- km |
| Empty weight | -- kg |
| Wingspan | 7.3 m |
| Length | 11.7 m |
| Operational range | 3,700 km |
| Empty weight | 1,500 kg |
Performance Radar Chart
Detailed Comparison
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which has longer range, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or MQ-28 Ghost Bat?
The MQ-28 Ghost Bat has a longer range at 3,700 km compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 km.
Which is larger, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or MQ-28 Ghost Bat?
The MQ-28 Ghost Bat is longer at 11.7 meters compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0.0 meters.