Airbus and Kratos joined the forces to offer the XQ-58a Valkyrie drone to Germany, with the potential for expansion in other European countries. The model, which is already used by the US, will receive a mission system developed by Airbus, making it more adaptable to the needs of Europe.
The partnership aims to deliver an affordable and high capacity collaborative combat aircraft, ready for operation by 2029, reinforcing the continent’s air defense in a scenario of growing tension with Russia.
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Although Germany has not yet confirmed the purchase, Luftwaffe has shown interest in Loyal Wingman drones to operate with fighters such as Eurofighter and the future F-35A. Valkyrie, which can be launched without track and even container, would be ideal for missions near NATO borders.
Meanwhile, Airbus also develops its own concept, the Wingman, predicted for the 2030s, but Valkyrie emerges as a more immediate and tested solution in combat.
The initiative comes at a crucial moment, as European air forces seek economic options to recover lost capabilities with budget cuts. The XQ-58A, although excluded from the first phase of the US CCA program, has attracted attention, especially after successful tests with American Naval Marines.
With adaptable versions, including one for electronic war, the drone can become key to the restructuring of European air defense.
Source: The War Zone | Photo: x @airbusdefence | This content was created with the help of AI and revised by the editorial team
Airbus and Kratos Defense are partnering to deliver a European-configured XQ-58A Valkyrie drone to the German Air Force by 2029. This collaboration combines a cutting-edge American platform with advanced Airbus mission systems tailored for Europe. #XQ58 #Valkyrie #Defense…
– Kratos (@kratosdefense) July 18, 2025
