Airbus completes first European flight of Valkyrie combat drone

Airbus conducted the first European flight of the Valkyrie combat drone, built by US firm Kratos, on September 29 in northern Sweden. The drone, 9 meters long and weighing up to 3 tons, reached 80% of the speed of sound at altitudes between 3,000 and 9,000 meters. It uses rocket boosters for launch and a parachute for landing, allowing deployment from truck trailers without runways. The Bundeswehr aims to purchase 400 to 500 such 'Loyal Wingmen' drones. Airbus plans to integrate its own 'Mars' control software in mid-2027 to ensure European autonomy, with operational readiness targeted for 2029. Competitors include Rheinmetall and Boeing's Ghostbat, Helsing's in-house model, and General Atomics' Gambit. Airbus shares are trading around 168 euros, 16% below their 12-month high, with analysts averaging a 231 euro price target.