First launch from a Valkyrie

The United States Air Force Research Laboratory successfully completed the XQ-58A Valkyrie’s sixth flight test and first release from its internal weapons bay, on 26 March  2021 at Yuma Proving Ground (AZ). The XQ-58A Valkyrie involved in this testflight was serial 15-8003.

This test, conducted in partnership with Kratos UAS and Area-I, demonstrated the ability to launch an ALTIUS-600 small, unmanned aircraft system (SUAS) from the internal weapons bay of the XQ-58A.

Kratos, Area-I and AFRL designed and fabricated the SUAS carriage and developed software to enable release. After successful release of the SUAS, the XQ-58A completed additional test points to expand its demonstrated operating envelope.

During this sixth flight of the Valkyrie and the first SUAS separation demonstration, the XQ-58A flew higher and faster than previous flights. This test further demonstrates the utility of affordable, high performance unmanned air vehicles.

Photo: US AFRL