PATUXENT RIVER, Md.— The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division at Patuxent River completed a key tactical demonstration showing F-35 Lightning II pilots directing multiple Collaborative Combat Aircraft through touch-screen tablets during simulated combat missions in the Joint Simulation Environment.
The event, conducted in the JSE at NAWCAD, tested integration between crewed fifth-generation fighters and uncrewed collaborative combat systems. Pilots used advanced communication links and precision-guided munitions to engage complex threats in a highly realistic virtual setting. The demonstration highlighted how simulation can accelerate development of tactics for future air combat involving both manned and unmanned platforms.
“Modern warfare is demanding more from our aviators,” NAWCAD Commander Rear Adm. Todd Evans said. “This milestone shows the Joint Simulation Environment’s impact on equipping them with the advanced tactics they need to win future battles.”
The JSE serves as the Department of Defense’s advanced digital test and training range. Engineers at NAWCAD designed the facility to replicate real-world combat conditions using cockpit simulators, sophisticated software, and large domed visual displays. Pilots can complete more training sorties in one week within the JSE than they typically achieve in a full year on live open-air ranges. This capability allows safe, repeatable testing of new systems and concepts while reducing risk and cost.
Collaborative Combat Aircraft are multi-role uncrewed vehicles designed to operate alongside crewed fighters such as the F-35. The systems aim to increase mission effectiveness in contested environments by allowing pilots to delegate certain tasks to the uncrewed platforms, freeing them to concentrate on higher-level decision-making. The recent demonstration advances Navy efforts to develop operational concepts and tactics for integrating CCAs with fifth-generation aircraft.
NAWCAD plans to expand the JSE in fiscal year 2026 by adding support for additional platforms, including the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, and EA-18G Growler. These additions will enable more comprehensive integrated testing and training across multiple aircraft types.
The facility already supports dozens of Navy and Marine Corps squadrons and hundreds of pilots each year. It facilitates joint training with the Air Force and international partners. Expansion efforts are underway at additional locations, including Naval Air Station Fallon, Nellis Air Force Base, and Edwards Air Force Base, to increase access for tactical aircrews across services.
Located in Southern Maryland, NAWCAD is the Navy’s principal research, development, test, evaluation, and sustainment center for aircraft systems. The command employs military, civilian, and contractor personnel at its main site in Patuxent River, with major facilities in St. Inigoes, Maryland; Lakehurst, New Jersey; and Orlando, Florida. It operates test ranges, laboratories, and aircraft in support of all Navy and Marine Corps aviation platforms.
The recent F-35 and CCA demonstration aligns with broader Department of the Navy priorities to modernize air warfare capabilities. By leveraging high-fidelity simulation, NAWCAD enables faster iteration of tactics and integration strategies without the constraints of live-flight testing. The work supports readiness for future conflicts where crewed and uncrewed systems must operate seamlessly together.
This milestone builds on previous JSE advancements that have already demonstrated joint force collaboration between Marines and Air Force units. Continued development of the environment positions Southern Maryland as a central hub for next-generation aviation simulation and training.