What is XQ-58 Valkyrie? Deadly drone which could replace fighter jets in future, it is developed by..., range is...
In this regard, we will talk about a smart combat drone named XQ-58 Valkyrie, which is designed to fly alongside fighter jets. It is a long-range drone equipped with Artificial Intelligence technology and is cost effective. This system is being viewed as a military tool that could change the scenario of future air combat. Given its impressive, encompassing varied features, can it replace fighter jets?
The XQ-58 Valkyrie is a combat drone built by Kratos Defence, an American technology company with manufacturing concentrations in weapons and military electronics. The XQ-58 Valkyrie is designed to fly with manned jets and can carry bombs or missiles. Currently, it is being tested by the US Air Force and Marine Corps as a 'loyal wingman' for future missions. What are range and speed of XQ-58 Valkyrie?
The XQ-58 Valkyrie can fly up to 3,000 miles (4,800 km) without refuelling and can reach speeds of around 650 miles per hour (1046 km/h). It can touch cruise speed of 548 miles per hour (882 km/h) and its service ceiling is 45,000 ft (14,000 m). These features allow it to travel long distances and support missions far from the base, according to Kratos and Air Force reports. Cost and production
Each Valkyrie drone costs about $4-6 million, depending on the version and order size. If more than 100 are built per year, the price could drop to $2 million per drone. This makes it much cheaper than traditional fighter jets. How does XQ-58 Valkyrie function?
The XQ-58 Valkyrie drone can be launched from a trailer using rockets or from a runway with a special trolley. It lands by parachute. What makes this drone even more effective is its ability to fly alone, in groups, or alongside piloted jets. It uses artificial intelligence to follow mission plans or respond to pilot commands.
Valkyrie is designed to carry bombs, missiles, or sensors in its internal bay or on its wings. It can be used as a spy drone to detect enemy positions, jam signals, or attack targets. Its low cost makes it even more efficient. Can it replace fighter jets?
Given the scale at which different militaries are working on the next generation fighter jets along with combat drones, it is hypothetical, yet practical at the same time to assume that drones like Valkyrie could pose a serious competition to fighter jets and substantially reduce the risk to human pilots. As reported, recently, F-35 and F-16 jets have controlled Valkyrie drones in flight, showing how manned and unmanned aircraft can work together. The future of air combat
As discussed above, hi-tech AI drones like XQ-58 Valkyrie may soon become an integral part of the air forces just like fighter jets. Moreover, they don't cost much, have an operational long range and most importantly can work in tandem with the fighter jets. The future of aerial combat does look like to be set for an overhaul with the drones playing a key part.
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