Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ:KTOS) shares are up during Friday's premarket session. The company disclosed that it is preparing two Valkyries for their first flight with a European mission system.

This positive movement comes as Kratos continues its collaboration with Airbus SE (OTC:EADSY). The deal entails developing an integrated Uncrewed Collaborative Combat Aircraft (UCCA) for the German Air Force.

Details

The joint effort aims to deliver a proven combat aircraft that integrates with Airbus's Multiplatform Autonomous Reconfigurable and Secure (MARS) system.

The Valkyrie has a range exceeding 5,000 kilometers and is capable of flying at altitudes up to 45,000 feet. It is designed to undertake sensitive missions that would be too dangerous for pilots.

In addition to the technical specifications, the partnership emphasizes affordability and rapid deployment, addressing urgent defense needs in Europe.

The Valkyrie first flew in the U.S. in 2019, with additional aircraft operating regularly since then. The Airbus variant is set to make its maiden flight in 2026.

As the maiden flight approaches, Kratos is preparing two Valkyries in Manching, Germany.

Management Commentary

Steve Fendley, President of Kratos Unmanned Systems Division, added, "By taking the flight-proven and in-production Valkyrie and integrating the Airbus MARS mission system, the Airbus-missionized Valkyrie UCCA is ...