Autonomous aircraft testing arrives

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  

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

The 40th Flight Test Squadron took possession of the first of two government-owned Kratos XQ‑58A Valkyrie aircraft. The Valkyrie 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 determining the best flight path and throttle settings to comply with commands.

The Autonomous Aircraft Experimentation team is using the 30-foot long XQ-58A and Eglin range for developmental ground and flight testing.