Airbus Valkyrie Drone: The New Loyal Wingman for Germany
Airbus Defence and Space, in collaboration with US-based Kratos Defense and Security Solutions, has introduced the XQ-58A Valkyrie combat drone as a leading contender for the German Air Force’s future arsenal. Set to be operational by 2029, this drone is engineered to carry out autonomous missions that provide both kinetic and non-kinetic operations. Additionally, it is designed to function alongside manned aircraft, embodying the concept of a ‘loyal wingman’.
The ambitious partnership’s proposal will utilize a versatile mission system developed by Airbus. Mike Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space, emphasized the urgency of this initiative, stating that clients seek both attritable and non-attritable Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) amid the current geopolitical upheaval. He further underscored that this collaboration, relying on a proven unmanned aerial system (UAS) platform, will significantly enhance Europe’s military capabilities while reinforcing NATO’s transatlantic alliances.
Training for the Future: Manned-Unmanned Teams
This announcement comes at a time when the German Air Force is keen to advance training protocols for manned-unmanned teaming strategies, preparing for the Next Generation Weapon System (NGWS). This ambitious initiative aims to integrate a next-generation manned fighter with collaborative combat aircraft. The NGWS initiative is a cornerstone of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), a multinational project that groups Germany with France and Spain.
In a strategic move, Airbus plans to utilize the Valkyrie drone as a ‘learning vehicle’ to facilitate the German Air Force’s training in effective cooperation between manned and unmanned platforms. The goal is to ensure that personnel are well-prepared for the challenges of modern aerial combat scenarios, optimizing their operational readiness and increasing effectiveness in collaborative missions.
Cost-Effective Solutions for Modern Warfare
The Valkyrie UAV is projected to be a cost-effective solution for the German military, with an estimated price tag of under 10 million euros, roughly translating to about $11.59 million. The drone boasts impressive specifications, including a flight range of approximately 3,000 miles (4,282 kilometers) and the ability to soar at altitudes reaching 45,000 feet (13,716 meters), making it a formidable asset in any aerial defense strategy.
Eric DeMarco, CEO of Kratos, remarked on the design philosophy behind the Valkyrie, asserting its potential as a cost-efficient and powerful CCA. He elaborated on the importance of this system in enabling collaboration with not only piloted aircraft but also a fleet of uncrewed systems. With its proven capabilities first demonstrated in 2019, DeMarco expressed enthusiasm for the ongoing collaboration with Airbus to develop a Valkyrie variant tailored specifically for European operational requirements.
