Amid rising defense investments and geopolitical tensions across Europe, Airbus Defence and Space and Kratos Defense and Security Solutions have launched a strategic partnership in the field of combat drones. The two companies will jointly develop a Germany-specific version of the U.S.-developed XQ-58A Valkyrie unmanned combat aircraft. The German Air Force (Luftwaffe) is expected to begin operational use of this next-generation drone by 2029.
This initiative stands out as part of Europe’s broader effort to increase technological autonomy while also reinforcing transatlantic ties within NATO.
Valkyrie: Silent, Fast, and Lethal
Developed by Kratos, the XQ-58A Valkyrie is a low-cost, high-maneuverability tactical drone designed under the Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) concept, where crewed and uncrewed systems operate in coordination. Built for the U.S. Air Force’s Low-Cost Attritable Aircraft Technology (LCAAT) program, the Valkyrie can be launched without a runway via rail-assisted launch. It has a flight range of up to 4,828 kilometers and a maximum takeoff weight of about 3 tons.
Thanks to its stealth profile, ability to fly at 45,000 feet, integration of electronic warfare systems, and flexible payload capacity, the Valkyrie is a highly versatile operational asset. It can perform autonomous missions, operate in drone swarms, or act as a “Loyal Wingman” alongside manned fighter jets.
Airbus Tailors Valkyrie for Europe
Airbus plans to keep the core structure of the Valkyrie while integrating mission systems tailored to European requirements. A modular and platform-agnostic architecture is being developed to ensure maximum interoperability between manned and unmanned systems in European forces.
Airbus Defence and Space CEO Mike Schoellhorn emphasized the urgent demand from European militaries for both low-cost and advanced UAV systems, stating that the goal is to deliver operational solutions by 2029.
Kratos CEO Eric DeMarco welcomed the partnership, noting that Valkyrie has demonstrated its maturity and operational potential since its first flight.
A New Chapter in Germany’s Defense Strategy
Although the XQ-58A is not directly linked to the Luftwaffe’s Electronic Combat Wingman program, this partnership anticipates Germany’s future defense needs. Airbus officials noted that the program aims to provide a customized solution for Germany while significantly boosting Europe’s defense capabilities.
In parallel, Airbus is continuing development of its own “Wingman” UAV project, announced in 2024 in cooperation with German tech company Helsing. That platform, aimed at supporting aircraft like the Eurofighter, belongs to a heavier drone class, while Valkyrie—with its lighter design—offers advantages in deployability and numbers, serving as a complementary asset.
A Strategic Tech Bridge Between the U.S. and Europe
Although the U.S. Air Force did not select the XQ-58A Valkyrie in the first round of its Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, Kratos continues to develop the platform. It is collaborating with the U.S. Marine Corps on the PAACK-P program, focusing on electronic warfare variants. In April 2025, Kratos released images of a Valkyrie fitted with landing gear, signaling that future versions will not be limited to rail-launch systems.
The Key to Europe’s Airpower Transformation
The Airbus-Kratos partnership has the potential to be a major milestone in Europe’s rapidly evolving defense architecture, especially in response to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Affordable, mass-deployable, and multi-role UAVs like the Valkyrie will play a central role in the digital transformation and modernization of European air forces.
Beyond technology, this alliance represents a new strategic defense synergy between Europe and the United States. The year 2029 will not only mark the Valkyrie’s entry into European airspace—it may also be a turning point on the continent’s path toward defense independence.
