Airbus tests Valkyrie combat drone and targets 2029 deployment

Airbus SE and Kratos Defense & Security Solutions announced on October 12, 2026, that the U740 Valkyrie uncrewed combat aircraft completed its maiden European test flight. The test flight took place on September 29, 2026, reaching a maximum flight speed of Mach 0.8. Airbus is targeting full combat readiness for the aircraft program by 2029.

The aircraft measures 9.1 meters in length and has a wingspan of 8.2 meters. It features a maximum takeoff weight of 3 metric tonnes, an operational range of 5,000 km, and a service ceiling of 45,000 feet. The program aims to conduct flight tests alongside the Eurofighter for manned-unmanned teaming operations starting in 2027.

Airbus Defence and Space estimates the unit cost of the Valkyrie at 20 million euros, or 22.4 million dollars. The company is positioning the drone to meet a projected requirement of 500 uncrewed combat aircraft for the German Air Force fleet.