Kratos is developing new versions of the XQ-58A Valkyrie Drone after the United States Marine Corps announce plans to turn it into an official acquisition program. The company has also partnered with Airbus to create a European variant for German Luftwaffe, with expected delivery by 2029. In addition, the manufacturer negotiates with two other unveiled customers, positioning itself as an exclusive supplier in both cases.
To meet demand, Kratos has already started planning to produce at least 24 additional units, increasing total production to 48 drones, including track -independent versions, CTOL capacity (with landing train) and custom models.
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Naval Marines have tested Valkyrie mainly for electronic war and attack missions, with a special interest in versions that operate in remote places. The European variant, developed with Airbus, will have a modular architecture for integration with NATO systems. Meanwhile, Kratos reinforces its portfolio with other projects, such as the Tactical Airwolf drone and the confidential Apollo and Athena, the latter already undergoing flight testing.
The company points out that Valkyrie is a proven platform, with operational flights since 2019, including joint operations with fighters such as F-35 and F-22.
Kratos’s strategy contrasts with competition in the US Air Force CCA (CCA) program of which was left out in the first phase. While rivals such as General Atomics and Andandiril prepare more complex prototypes, Kratos bets on affordable and scalable drones, aligning with recent statements by military authorities about the preference for cost-benefit.
With continuous investments in Valkyrie and look at international markets, the company consolidates its position as a leader in next -generation combat drones.
Source: The War Zone | Photo: x @kratosdefense | This content was created with the help of AI and revised by the editorial team
Exciting news! Kratos has been awarded a $34.8M contract from the @USMC to enhance the XQ-58A Valkyrie UAS. This work supports MUX TACAIR, pushing boundaries in unmanned aerial systems. Read more: https://t.co/IxjAdvJ2zz#DefenseInnovation #XQ58A pic.twitter.com/24A3SiDREt
– Kratos (@kratosdefense) January 22, 2025
