XQ-58A Valkyrie demos first weapon release in latest flight test

The Air Force Research Laboratory has demonstrated the first release of an ALTIUS-600 small drone from an XQ-58A Valkyrie's internal weapons bay, according to a notice AFRL issued today.

The March 26th flight test was the Kratos-built Valkyrie's sixth overall and occurred at Yuma Proving Ground, AZ. The aircraft flew higher and faster than in previous flights, demonstration program manager Alyson Turri said in the notice.

The ALTIUS-600 is made by AREA-I, which defense contractor Anduril Industries recently acquired.