Defense News

U.S

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions recently showcased the electronic warfare prowess of the XQ-58A Valkyrie unmanned aerial system for the US Marine Corps at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.

During the demonstration, the XQ-58A flew alongside two F-35 Lightning II combat aircraft and executed an integrated electronic attack.

Equipped with electronic warfare payload, the tactical drone identified, tracked, and geolocated multiple targets. It then relayed coordinates to collaborative equipment and successfully delivered non-kinetic effects against simulated threats without human intervention.

The successful completion of all flight evaluations during the trial paves the way for the Marines to proceed with the next stages of the program. The US Air Force's 40th Flight Test Squadron, 96th Test Wing, provided additional support for the demonstration.

Steve Fendley, President of Kratos Unmanned Systems Division, expressed excitement about the mission capability demonstrated during the flight. He highlighted the cost-effectiveness of the technology, the elimination of risk to human pilots, and the protection of expensive manned platforms.

The Eglin activity marked the conclusion of the initial phase of the Penetrating Affordable Autonomous Collaborative Killer – Portfolio (PAACK-P) initiative. This program aims to establish collaboration between "wingman" drones and piloted fighter jets for various military missions.

The XQ-58A Valkyrie, with its maiden flight for PAACK-P conducted at the same site in October 2023, plays a pivotal role in this initiative. Fendley emphasized the importance of these technologies in achieving effective, survivable, and affordable mass for modern military operations.

The XQ-58 Valkyrie boasts impressive specifications, including a length of 30 feet, a wingspan of 27 feet, a cruise speed of 476 knots, and a range of up to 3,000 nautical miles. With a maximum takeoff weight of 6,000 pounds and an altitude capability of 45,000 feet, it stands as a versatile asset for military missions.

In collaboration with Northrop Grumman and the Marine Corps, Kratos continues to pioneer advancements in unmanned aerial systems, contributing to the development of critical capabilities for 21st-century warfare.