XQ-58A Valkyrie is a loyal wingman UAS with stealth features, high subsonic speed, long range, modular payloads, and autonomous teaming for strike and EW missions.

# Kratos XQ-58A Valkyrie – Loyal Wingman Uncrewed Aircraft

The XQ-58A Valkyrie from Kratos Defense & Security Solutions is a low-cost, high-performance uncrewed tactical aircraft designed as a loyal wingman to support manned fighters in strike, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare roles. Built for contested environments, it combines survivability, autonomy, and affordability.

1. Stealth and Mission Role

With its stealthy shaping and attritable cost, the Valkyrie can be deployed for high-risk operations. Its modular payload bays allow carriage of weapons, sensors, or communications relays, providing flexible mission capability. Production takes place at Kratos’ Oklahoma City facility, ensuring scalable and cost-effective output.

2. Autonomy and Teaming

The aircraft features autonomous control modes and secure datalinks for manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T). It can operate independently or alongside fighters like the F-35 and F-22, executing cooperative tactics, delegated missions, and extending force reach and resilience.

3. Performance and Deployment

The Valkyrie reaches high subsonic speeds up to Mach 0.86 with a range over 3,000 nautical miles (5,556 km). It uses runway-independent launch methods such as trolley or rocket-assisted takeoff, and recovery is handled by parachute and airbag systems. These features simplify logistics, reduce operational footprint, and support rapid deployment.