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THE EVOLVING FIELD GUIDEEditor

Company

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions

Coverage focus: XQ-58A Valkyrie. A jet-powered collaborative aircraft used to explore autonomy, mission payloads and integration with crewed aviation. The programme also examines alternatives to conventional airfield dependence.

Published 20 Sept 2026Updated 20 Sept 2026Sources reviewed 20 Sept 2026

By Defence Drones editorial team

Coverage

This profile currently covers XQ-58A Valkyrie.

Programme context

Flight-tested with military operators; the US Air Force reported further teaming experiments in July 2025. Kratos states that Valkyrie is in production. The Marine Corps' 2026 aviation plan prioritises MQ-58 integration; a plan is distinct from a fully fielded fleet.

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Follow the evidence

Source types identify who makes the claim. Programme milestones and supplier statements should be read in context.

  1. Kratos Valkyrie overview (opens in a new tab)Manufacturer / programme source
  2. US Air Force teaming tests, 3 July 2025 (opens in a new tab)Government / operator
  3. 2026 Marine Corps Aviation Plan announcement (opens in a new tab)Government / operator

Systems & connected topics

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XQ-58A Valkyrie

A jet-powered collaborative aircraft used to explore autonomy, mission payloads and integration with crewed aviation. The programme also examines alternatives to conventional airfield dependence.

Development / trialsRead