Airbus and Kratos Defense & Security Solutions have successfully completed the first European flight of the U740 Valkyrie, marking a major milestone in the development of next-generation uncrewed combat aircraft.
Conducted at a test facility in Northern Europe on October 12, 2026, the maiden flight reportedly achieved all its objectives, including rocket-assisted take-off, manoeuvres at different altitudes and speeds of up to Mach 0.8, and in-flight mission adjustments.
The U740 Valkyrie is designed to operate autonomously or alongside crewed fighter aircraft such as the Eurofighter, supporting high-risk missions while enhancing the range, firepower and survivability of manned combat aircraft.
Measuring 9.1 metres in length with an 8.2-metre wingspan, the aircraft has a maximum take-off weight of approximately three tonnes, a range exceeding 5,000 kilometres and a service ceiling of 45,000 feet. It features an internal weapons bay and external payload stations beneath its wings.
The aircraft will be integrated with Airbus’ MARS mission system, designed to enable autonomous missions and coordinate groups of uncrewed aircraft while keeping humans responsible for critical decisions.
Airbus and Kratos aim to deliver a combat-ready Collaborative Combat Aircraft by 2029 for Germany and potentially other European armed forces. The programme is expected to strengthen crewed-uncrewed teaming, allowing fighter pilots to work alongside autonomous aircraft in complex and high-risk operational environments.
The successful flight marks another significant step towards the future of autonomous military aviation and Europe’s next-generation air combat capabilities.
