Kratos Valkyrie XQ-58A

USA Unmanned Aerial System

26-10-2023

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Inc. and the US Air Force Research Laboratory have developed the XQ-58A Valkyrie as a loyal wingman Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) to be deployed by the US Air Force. The Valkyrie's autonomous capabilities include plane-to-plane combat, surveillance, electronic warfare, and air-to-surface attacks. The UAS has been tested in formation with manned aircraft, and has a range of payload types and additional autonomous functions.

Basic Weapon Facts

I. Background

Manufacturer: Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.
Collaborators: U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory, Shield AI, strategic partners
Country of Origin: United States
Developmental Stage: Test phase
System Version: Unknown
System Type: Unmanned Aerial System

II. General Specifications

System Dimensions: Length: 9.1 m, Wingspan: 8.2 m
Weight: 1134 kg (Dry Weight), Max Launch Weight: ~907 kg
Max Payload: 2722 kg
Max Operating Time: Unknown
Max Operating Distance/Reach: Approximately 5600 km
Max Speed: 0.72 Mach

III. Autonomy

Autonomous Targeting Capabilities: Currently still in a testing phase, the platform has the capacity to carry different kinds of payloads according to the needs and wants of its user, including different modules that add autonomous functionalities. It integrates AI in its execution of air-to-air and air-to-surface combat. The Valkyrie's autonomous capabilities include plane-to-plane combat, surveillance, electronic warfare, and air-to-surface attacks.

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