The Valkyrie drone is designed to operate independently without human control, in conjunction with other drones, and as part of a human/machine team. The goal is to provide a cost-effective robotic alternative to piloted aircraft that can escort and work with fighter aircraft and be deployed in particularly dangerous areas. The drone has a top speed of 567 knots, a service ceiling of 44,997 ft, and a range of 2,128 nm. It can carry up to eight weapons, including JDAMs and other small-diameter bombs.
Key takeaways:
- The US Air Force's XQ-58A Valkyrie experimental combat drone has completed its first flight under the control of artificial intelligence.
- The test is part of the Skyborg Vanguard program, which aims to develop an AI/machine learning agent capable of flying safely while solving tactical challenges.
- The Valkyrie drone is a joint project of Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems and the US Air Force Research Laboratory, aiming to create a jet-powered autonomous combat drone that can operate independently, in conjunction with other drones, and as part of a human/machine team.
- The Valkyrie drone has a wingspan of 22 ft, a top speed of 567 knots, a service ceiling of 44,997 ft, and a range of 2,128 nm. It can carry up to eight weapons, including JDAMs and other small-diameter bombs.