The Marine Corps achieved a significant milestone by conducting the first flight of the XQ-58A Valkyrie combat drone earlier this week, with the outcome aligning with expectations, according to an official spokesperson. The Valkyrie is an "highly autonomous" drone driven by artificial intelligence and requiring minimal human intervention. Additionally, it boasts a relatively low cost of $6.5 million, rendering it "attritable" or expendable on the battlefield. The fact sheet emphasizes that this low-maintenance and reusable vehicle is built with the intention of fulfilling multiple missions, all while maintaining affordability to accommodate potential combat losses.
The development of the XQ-58A Valkyrie is part of a broader initiative aimed at curbing the increasing cost trends associated with tactically relevant aircraft. While the fact sheet does not provide detailed performance and armament specifications, it underscores that this long-range aircraft is engineered for high-speed capabilities and agile maneuverability, enabling it to undertake a variety of missions. Moreover, the Valkyrie's unique feature allows it to take off from an inclined track mounted on a flatbed trailer, eliminating the need for conventional runway facilities.