Air Force Research Laboratory sets first flight date for XQ-58A

The AFRL has set a first flight date for the Kratos XQ-58A Valkyrie. The Valkyrie is a supposed low cost UCAV that was designed in part to meet the low cost attritable strike demonstrator (LCASD) program. It also is part of the USAF's 'Loyal WIngman" concept and its stealth would allow it to work with other manned platforms. In addition it is supposed to be capable of swarm type action with other drones as well.

They are not considered disposable, however, the costs are low enough to consider them "attritable" or sacrificial if the mission requirements dictate it. Sort of a ninja kamakazi of sorts. This may an effective concepts particularly in denied airspace or first day of war type attacks.

It will be interesting to watch this one as it progresses. First flight is scheduled for 'autumn"

www.flightglobal.com...

Too late.