U.S. Reveals Next-Gen ‘Valkyrie’ Unmanned Fighter Jet with Astonishing Firepower

U.S. Next-Generation Unmanned Combat Aircraft
XQ-58A Valkyrie Test Flight
Differentiated from Existing U.S. Military Drones

The future of warfare is increasingly moving towards minimizing human involvement in combat processes. Many unmanned weapons have already been deployed in actual combat, with the U.S. military being a notable user of drones.

However, this unmanned combat aircraft, which recently entered test flights, is said to be entirely different from those previously operated in the U.S. Meet today’s star, the XQ-58A, also known as ‘Valkyrie.’ Let’s take a closer look at it.

Different Mission from Existing Drones
Deployed in More Aggressive Situations

Valkyrie has a distinctly different purpose and mission from the drones the U.S. military has previously used, such as the MQ-1 Predator multi-purpose drone and the MQ-9 Reaper attack drone. The Predator and Reaper perform bombing and attack missions at high altitudes where air supremacy is secured, or anti-air defense is impossible.

In contrast, Valkyrie is deployed in a more threatening environment. It can penetrate enemy air surveillance with high-level stealth technology and deliver powerful blows to the enemy by dropping high-explosive guided bombs and attack drones.

Unmanned Combat Aircraft Squadron Operation
Launches from a Rail

Being a drone deployed in intense combat, Valkyrie can be mass-produced at a low cost and deployed as desired. Therefore, it will likely operate under the command of leading combat aircraft like the F-22 or F-35 in the field.

Also, for quick deployment, it is not launched from a runway but rather launched, almost like taking off from a small rail. Considering the purpose of creating Valkyrie, this is a reasonable choice. However, test flights are currently being conducted since neither the U.S. military nor pilots have experience operating unmanned combat aircraft squadrons.

Still in the Testing Phase
Conscious of China’s Drone Power

As enthusiasts may know, if an X is included in a fighter’s name, it usually signifies a ‘test aircraft.’ Valkyrie is still in the testing phase, but if it is adopted as a main unmanned aircraft, it is expected to replace most of the roles currently performed by manned fighters.

The introduction of U.S. drones is also believed to be related to China’s strengthening drone power. China focuses on deploying cost-effective drone and unmanned aircraft forces in actual combat. Therefore, the U.S. is also aware of this strategic trend and is gradually changing its approach to conducting warfare.