Airbus and Kratos Defense & Security Solutions have flown the U740 Valkyrie unmanned combat aircraft in Europe for the first time. The milestone advances their efforts to deliver a combat-ready Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) for Germany and other European military customers by 2029.
The aircraft completed a series of maneuvers during testing at an undisclosed facility in northern Europe. Its achievements included rocket-assisted takeoff without a conventional runway, flights at speeds up to Mach 0.8, and mid-air adjustments to mission parameters.
The partners are now planning more advanced trials with Airbus’ MARS mission system. The software will help the Valkyrie carry out missions autonomously while maintaining European control of its critical systems.
Valkyrie completes European debut
The U740 Valkyrie is 9.1 meters (29.9 feet) long and has a wingspan of 8.2 meters (26.9 feet). It features an internal weapons bay and additional payload stations under its wings.
The aircraft has a maximum takeoff weight of around three tons. Its range is more than 3,100 miles and it can operate at altitudes of up to 45,000 feet.
These specifications position the Valkyrie for missions where conventional aircraft and their crews face significant risks. It can operate independently or coordinate with manned fighter aircraft, including the Eurofighter.
Airbus expects the drone to extend the range and firepower of existing fighter jets. Its design also provides a way to increase the number of combat platforms available without relying solely on expensive manned fighters.
The aircraft supports conventional runway operations, but offers additional operational capability through its rail-launched capability. The rocket support enables takeoff without relying on a conventional runway.
MARS brings autonomous control
Airbus’ Autonomous Reconfigurable and Secure (MARS) multiplatform system will give the Valkyrie its European mission architecture. The system gives European operators control over mission applications, software, data and hardware.
MARS uses AI-powered software to manage autonomous missions and coordinate aircraft groups. Human operators maintain control of the system, especially when decisions involve established rules of engagement.
This agreement gives European armed forces the opportunity to introduce autonomous combat aircraft without relinquishing control of their mission systems to an external provider. Future flight tests will examine how MARS integrates with the Valkyrie’s existing capabilities.
Affordable mass drives development
Mike Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defense and Space, said modern air forces need affordable ways to increase combat capacity in increasingly contested environments.
“By combining Kratos’ proven program of record airframe with Airbus’ sovereign European mission system, we are positioned to deliver a robust, confident, affordable and combat-ready CCA system by the end of the decade,” said Schoellhorn.
Kratos CEO Eric DeMarco also praised the first flight, citing the maturity of the aircraft and the integration work between both teams. He said the partnership could expand opportunities in Germany and other international markets.
The 2029 target gives the companies several years to mature the aircraft and its autonomous mission software. Subsequent testing will determine how effectively the Valkyrie can combine affordable production, flexible deployment and coordinated operations alongside manned fighters.
