Europe has marked a significant milestone in the evolution of next-generation unmanned collaborative combat aircraft. On October 12, 2026, the U740-Valkyrie, an unmanned combat aircraft co-developed by Airbus and the US-based Kratos company, successfully completed its inaugural flight in Northern Europe. Leveraging rocket-assisted takeoff technology, the test flight soared to a speed of Mach 0.8 and seamlessly executed in-flight mission adjustment tests.

The U740 boasts a maximum takeoff weight of roughly 3,000 kilograms, an operational range surpassing 5,000 kilometers, and a service ceiling of 13,716 meters. It is outfitted with an internal weapons bay and external payload points, enhancing its versatility in combat scenarios. Building upon enhancements to the US XQ-58A technology, the aircraft is equipped with Airbus's proprietary MARS (Multi-Platform Autonomous Reconfigurable Secure Mission System). This system enables seamless multi-aircraft collaborative operations while ensuring that the ultimate decision-making authority remains with human operators.

The project's primary objective is to furnish the German Air Force with formidable combat capabilities by 2029. However, it faces stiff competition from China and the US, both of which are also making significant strides in the realm of unmanned combat aircraft.