US Navy orders Valkyrie drones for 'autonomous collaborative killer' project
An XQ-58A Valkyrie pictured in flight. (Photo: US DoD)
The USN has ordered two Kratos XQ-58A Valkyrie UAS as part of its Penetrating Affordable Autonomous Collaborative Killer portfolio work – an initiative previously unheard of until the contract award.
The $15.5 million deal will see the service supplied with the two UAS equipped with sensor and weapon system payloads and covers other services, including integration, ground and flight operations and maintenance.
In a statement, Kratos Unmanned Systems Division president Steve Fendley told Shephard: 'Kratos is excited to expand the use of the Valkyrie and offer its capabilities and the Kratos advantage of affordability to the navy with our
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
Read this Article
Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 1 free story per week
- Personalised news alerts
- Daily and weekly newsletters
- Free magazine subscription to all our titles
- Downloadable equipment data handbooks
- Distribution rights (Corporate only)
Unlimited Access
Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
- Unlimited access to all published premium news
- 10-year news archive access
- Downloadable equipment data handbooks
- Distribution rights (Corporate only)
More from Uncrewed Vehicles
-
Central Asian drones: land of opportunity or saturated market?
As Central Asian countries have bolstered their UAV fleets, states have been keen to localise production (and in some cases cut ties with Russia) through deals with Turkey, Iran and Belarus.
-
France progresses naval drone efforts with latest VSR700 testing
The programme's next phase will see the Airbus VTOL drone operating from a French Navy frigate.
-
US Navy looks to extend operational envelope for Triton UAS fleet
A series of flight trials for the Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton high-altitude long-endurance UAS will determine the aircraft's ability to fly in icing conditions.
-
UAVs present a step-change in maritime aviation, QinetiQ says
QinetiQ is supporting the UK Royal Navy's pursuit of UAV development.