US Marines’ XQ-58A Valkyrie UAS completes first test flight
The XQ-58A was developed jointly by Kratos and the USAFRL to be used in ISR and long-range strike missions. (Photo: USAF)
The USMC has announced it has completed a flight of its XQ-58A Valkyrie last week for the first time since it received the UAV in March this year.
The test is part of the Penetrating Affordable Autonomous Collaborative Killer – Portfolio (PAACK-P) initiative.
‘This XQ-58A test flight and the data collectednot only help to inform future requirements for the Marine Corps,’ according to Scott Bey, a prototyping and experimentation portfolio manager at the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, but it also ‘fuels continued joint innovation and experimentation opportunities and demonstrates the agility that can be achieved
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
US Air Force is eyeing cost-effective automated counter-drone solutions
The USAF is seeking on-the-move systems, subsystems or technologies capable of defending airbases and fixed and semi-fixed sites against small drone attacks.
-
Long-range drone acquisition axed as Norway announces $11.75 billion spending uplift
Norway’s funding boost will help the country reach 3.5% of GDP on defence spending by 2035, with autonomous systems part of the long list of priorities alongside frigate acquisition and development of a new Finnmark Brigade.
-
Dormant helicopter programmes in Africa and Asia present opportunities
Growing capability gaps caused by ageing Soviet-era platforms in Africa and Asia are creating opportunities, as disrupted supply chains and sanctions open the door for Western manufacturers to expand into these markets.