Autonomous aircraft testing arrives at Eglin AFB

Published Nov. 9, 2022
By Samuel King Jr., Eglin Air Force Base Public Affairs

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFNS) —

The 96th Test Wing recently acquired its newest aircraft, and along with it, a leading-edge experimentation effort.

The 40th Flight Test Squadron took possession of the first of two government-owned Kratos XQ‑58A Valkyrie. The aircraft is a low-cost, high-performance uncrewed air vehicle. It is rocket-launched off a rail system and is controlled from a ground station or airborne fighter. An onboard computer system is capable of determining the best flight path and throttle settings to comply with commands.

Shown is the Kratos XQ-58A Valkyrie. Recently, the 40th Flight Test Squadron at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., took possession of the first of two government-owned XQ-58As. The aircraft is a low-cost, high-performance uncrewed air vehicle that is rocket-launched off a rail system and is controlled from a ground station or airborne fighter by an onboard computer system that is capable determining the best flight path and throttle settings to comply with commands. (U.S. Air Force courtesy photo)

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Originally published at http://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3219533/autonomous-aircraft-testing-arrives-at-eglin-afb/