Kratos Defense & Security Solutions and Taiwan’s NCSIST have successfully tested the integrated Mighty Hornet IV attack UAV—an upgraded MQM-178 Firejet target drone—validating the NCSIST payload and mission system without requiring design changes.
The milestone clears the way for flight testing later this year, with NCSIST engineers joining Kratos in Oklahoma City to finalize requirements. Kratos says the effort proves both the technical approach and the strength of the U.S.–Taiwan collaboration.
With speeds up to Mach 0.8, high-G maneuvering, and a ceiling above 35,000 feet, the modified MQM-178 provides a capable base for the Mighty Hornet IV. Prior demonstrations highlighted its suitability for manned-unmanned teaming and loitering munition roles.
The goal is to field the system in large numbers in Taiwan as an affordable, operational deterrent. By combining proven Kratos airframes with NCSIST payloads, the partners have moved from concept to working system on an unusually short timeline, enabling practical near-term tactical UAS at scale.
Source: Kratos