Airbus Defence and Space and Kratos Defense have announced a joint proposal to supply the XQ-58A Valkyrie drone to the German Air Force, targeting deployment by 2029. The initiative will offer a robust, cost-efficient UCAV solution designed to support multi-role operations and future air combat integration.
With a range of 3,000 miles (4,282 kilometers) and an operational ceiling of 45,000 feet (13,716 meters), the Valkyrie provides long-range endurance at an estimated cost of under €10 million ($11.59 million). Designed for autonomous functionality, the drone can fly solo or operate in tandem with manned aircraft as part of “loyal wingman” missions.
The German variant will integrate Airbus’s sovereign multi-platform mission system, making it compatible with future air systems like the FCAS. Airbus also plans to use the Valkyrie as a training platform to advance German capabilities in manned-unmanned teaming, accelerating the learning curve for next-gen air combat.
This transatlantic cooperation is expected to enhance European strategic autonomy while reinforcing NATO interoperability, ensuring that key airpower capabilities are delivered before the decade’s close.
