Kratos Defense & Security Solutions has updated the XQ-58A Valkyrie unmanned aerial vehicle and announced the cost of the new version.
What is known
Cost of the XQ-58A Valkyrie attack droneamounted to $6.5 million. This was stated by the CEO and President of Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Eric DeMarco on a call with investors following last quarter's results.
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According to DeMarco, the company's drones are“the most capable and accessible in their class.” The $6.5 million figure is based on current small-scale production, although the capacity of Kratos Defense & Security Solutions allows us to produce up to 150 jet drones annually. Last year, the company said that the price would be $4 million when producing 50 drones per year. Even earlier, Kratos promised to lower the cost below $2 million when producing 100 units per year.
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Eric DeMarco stated that Kratos Defense &Security Solutions completes production of its first batch of 12 Block 1 drones at its Oklahoma facility. At the same time, the company has already begun work on the second batch, which consists of 12 Block 2 level drones. At least three prototypes were also created for the US Air Force, one of which went to the museum.
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The XQ-58A Valkyrie Block 2 is capable of morelong flights and climb higher than Block 1 drones. The payload has also been increased. In addition, the head of the company announced even more changes to Block 2B, but the details have not yet been specified.
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The US Air Force is actively testing the drone, includingincluding for joint work with the fifth generation fighter F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II. For example, Valkyrie is used as a high-level communication protocol between two aircraft.
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In addition, the XA-58A can be used to launch smaller drones and loitering ammunition. For example, ALTIUS-600, as shown in the photo above.