Kratos Defense and Security Solutions has begun placing engine orders in anticipation of receiving first series production contracts for its XQ-58A Valkyrie unmanned combat air system (UCAS) before the end of 2019.
Developed in conjunction with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) under the Low Cost Attritable Strike Demonstrator (LCASD) programme, the XQ-58A is a âloyal wingmanâ designed to function as an armed adjunct to conventional manned fighters.
The XQ-58A Valkyrie demonstrator successfully completed a second test flight at the Yuma proving grounds in Arizona on 11 June. The US Air Force Research Laboratory plans to conduct five demonstration flights. (US Air Force)
A prototype is being flight tested by the AFRL. The second of five planned demonstration flights was completed on 11 June, achieving 100% of planned test points. Kratos has built a further two Valkyrie air vehicles, which remain under its ownership.
Reporting the companyâs second quarter 2019 results in a 31 July earnings call, Kratos president and CEO Eric DeMarco said that the company was confident that Valkyrie was âon track for initial production and a programme of recordâ.
In response, the company has begun ordering engines âfor expected Valkyrie production to meet anticipated future customer delivery requirements,â DeMarco said. The XQ-58A demonstrator is powered by an off-the-shelf Williams International FJ33 twin-spool turbofan; it has not been confirmed if this engine type is being retained for follow-on production.
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