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US Air Force tests runway-independent drone

US Air Force tests runway-independent drone

Plus: 5 ICBMs that could end the world: A look at the most deadly missiles in existence.

Feb 07, 2023

The U.S. Air Force is droning on… but it’s definitely not boring.

It has tested its newest XQ-58A Valkyrie drones, which are interesting because they don’t need a runway.

XQ-58As have a modular design and are capable of being configured for a variety of roles ranging from intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) to strike or electronic warfare or simply acting as a relay for communications.

But before you watch that in action, take a moment to wonder what would happen if these 5 ICBMs were in action. This video shows the most deadly missiles in existence. So, it probably wouldn’t be good, that’s all I’m saying.

Good morning. I’m Alice, an Editor at IE.

This is The Blueprint. Let’s dive in.

Last Sunday, Blueprint subscribers heard from the world’s first 11-bladed propeller. This week they’ll hear from ChatGPT experts on why Google really does need to watch its back. Don't miss out — subscribe to IE+ today to receive exclusive interviews, features, and much more.

VIDEO OF THE DAY

5 ICBMs that could end the world: A look at the most deadly missiles in existence.

A cheerful thought for a Tuesday.

MUST READ

US Air Force tests XQ-58A, the runway-independent drone.

The U.S. Air Force has tested its newest XQ-58A Valkyrie drones in Florida, which are of particular interest because they don’t need a runway.

It reported that the new drones have successfully undergone an operational experimentation test flight, although it wasn't clear whether the drones belonged to the Block-2 of the XQ-58A that the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) tested last November.

Developed by Kratos Defense and Security Solutions, the XQ-58A Valkyrie is an “attritable drone.” which means it’s designed to be deployed on riskier missions in contested areas, but is not completely expendable.

The XQ-58A has a modular design and is capable of being configured for a variety of roles ranging from intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) to strike or electronic warfare or simply acting as a relay for communications.

Once the mission is completed, the drone can autonomously navigate to a set point where the engines cut off and parachutes are deployed to slowly bring it back to the ground. Inflatable airbags then cushion the drone's touchdown.

→ The drone is estimated to have a range of 3.500 miles (5,600 km) and a service ceiling of 45,000 feet (14,000 m), giving it ample scope to loiter during its missions.

INNOVATION

China: New hypersonic generator 'capable' of powering future weapons.

A team of researchers from Beijing has created a generator “capable” of converting hot gas at hypersonic speeds into a powerful electric current.

That electricity can then be used to power military lasers, microwave weapons, rail guns, and other pulsed energy weapons. The magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) generator can yield more than ten times the power generated in previous experiments.

SCIENCE

AI algorithm pinpoints 8 radio signals that may have come from aliens.

A scientist has applied machine learning and artificial intelligence to data collected by the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) Institute.

Based on initial results, there is a slight chance the new method may have unearthed non-Earth-based “technosignatures”. That would mean it had achieved SETI's goal of finding signs of extraterrestrial intelligence. The search so far has turned up empty-handed, though there is a slight chance that we may have seen a breakthrough.

CULTURE

The Last of Us: Scientists say a fungal pandemic is not impossible.

“The Last of Us,” one of HBO's hit shows, has introduced us to a different zombie apocalypse. Rather than biological or chemical weapons, people become zombies, thanks to a fungus. And it’s not as outrageous as it sounds. In fact, it could happen.

In the show, Cordyceps tendrils sprout from zombies’ heads and mouths, reaching out for new victims. And Cordyceps is a real thing. But at the moment, it only takes over the bodies and brains of other insects, most notably ants. As it stands, Cordyceps cannot infect us because it cannot survive at human body temperature.

MAIL & MUSINGS

US Air Force tests XQ-58A, the runway-independent drone.

What do you think this drone could be used for beyond military purposes?

Disaster response

Sensitive/high-risk logistics

Wildlife surveillance

Something else entirely

YESTERDAY'S RESULTS

Yesterday, we asked you if you would be interested in visiting Mars, and you were divided. 44 percent said not a chance, while 32 percent said sure, book me a ticket.

44%

Not a chance

32%

Yes, book me a ticket

18%

If it was safe, sure

I am unsure either way