Kratos Expands Contract to Enhance XQ-58A Valkyrie Drone Capabilities for U.S. Marine Corps

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., a leader in advanced defence and security solutions, has secured a $34.8 million contract expansion with the U.S. Marine Corps. This modification builds on an ongoing effort to develop and integrate mission systems and subsystems for the XQ-58A Valkyrie Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), a key element in the Marine Corps’ Tactical Aircraft (TACAIR) modernization program.

Advancing the Valkyrie for Tactical Excellence

The XQ-58A Valkyrie, developed by Kratos, represents a significant step forward in unmanned aerial systems. Known for its affordability, versatility, and advanced capabilities, the Valkyrie is designed to operate autonomously alongside manned aircraft. It plays a critical role in the Marine Corps' broader strategy of deploying Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) as part of its air-ground task force operations.

This contract modification will fund extensive engineering, material procurement, and additional flight testing to enhance the Valkyrie’s operational capabilities. Key upgrades will include advanced mission payloads, sensor integration, and enhanced autonomous systems, ensuring the Valkyrie meets the stringent requirements of modern battlefield scenarios.

Strategic Collaboration and Testing

Since 2022, Kratos has worked closely with Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Marine Corps under the Marine Air-Ground Task Force Unmanned Aerial System Expeditionary (MUX) program. The MUX program aims to develop unmanned systems that can complement manned aircraft, reduce risks, and enable precision missions. Recent demonstrations under the Penetrating Affordable Autonomous Collaborative Killer Portfolio (PAACK-P) initiative showcased the Valkyrie’s collaborative capabilities, paving the way for its integration into Marine Corps operations by 2025.

Testing and development activities for the Valkyrie will be conducted at several key locations, including Sacramento, California; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; China Lake, California; and Patuxent River, Maryland. These sites will focus on refining the Valkyrie’s performance, ensuring seamless integration with existing combat platforms, and validating its capabilities through rigorous flight testing.

Cutting-Edge Specifications of the XQ-58A Valkyrie

The XQ-58A Valkyrie is a high-subsonic unmanned aerial system built for versatility and affordability. Key features include:

• Runway Independence: The Valkyrie can be launched without requiring traditional airstrip infrastructure, allowing deployment in remote and austere locations.
• Long-Range Capabilities: With an operational range of approximately 3,000 nautical miles, the Valkyrie can support extended missions.
• Payload Flexibility: The drone is equipped with a modular mission bay that can carry precision-guided munitions, surveillance equipment, and electronic warfare payloads.
• Stealth Design: Its low-observable airframe reduces radar cross-section, enhancing survivability in contested environments.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Designed to be significantly less expensive than traditional manned aircraft, the Valkyrie allows for large-scale deployment without overwhelming defence budgets.

Vision for Collaborative Combat Aircraft

Colonel Derek Brannon, Director of the HQ USMC Cunningham Group, emphasized the Marine Corps’ commitment to pioneering Collaborative Combat Aircraft. The goal is to deploy an operational squadron of CCAs that leverage advanced technologies while maintaining cost efficiency.

Steve Fendley, President of Kratos’ Unmanned Systems Division, reiterated the importance of the Valkyrie in modernizing defence capabilities. “The Valkyrie’s ability to operate autonomously alongside manned aircraft significantly reduces risks and enhances mission effectiveness,” he said. He also highlighted the system’s rapid development and affordability as key enablers for the Department of Defense’s long-term goals.

A Transformative Role in Modern Warfare

The XQ-58A Valkyrie exemplifies the shift toward integrating unmanned systems into military operations. Its development aligns with the Marine Corps’ vision of future warfare, where affordability, flexibility, and autonomy play pivotal roles in maintaining strategic advantage.

As the Valkyrie continues to evolve, it is poised to redefine the role of unmanned systems in tactical air operations, ensuring the U.S. military remains at the forefront of innovation and combat readiness.