FQ-42 Dark Merlin vs XQ-58 Valkyrie
Overview
The FQ-42 Dark Merlin and the XQ-58 Valkyrie are both Military Drones, manufactured by General Atomics and Kratos respectively.
The XQ-58 Valkyrie first flew 6 years before the FQ-42 Dark Merlin (2019 vs 2025).
| American jet-powered collaborative combat aircraft developed by General Atomics, selected by the U.S. Air Force to fly air-to-air missions alongside crewed fighters under the CCA program. | |
| Origin country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Category | Military Drones |
| Manufacturer | General Atomics |
| First flight | 27 August 2025 |
| Year introduced | -- |
| Number produced | N/A |
| Average unit price | -- |
| American experimental stealth unmanned combat aerial vehicle, developed in the late 2010s, designed to serve as a loyal wingman for manned fighter aircraft. | |
| Origin country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Category | Military Drones |
| Manufacturer | Kratos |
| First flight | 5 March 2019 |
| Year introduced | -- |
| Number produced | N/A |
| Average unit price | $4 million |
| Wingspan | -- m |
| Length | -- m |
| Maximum speed | -- km/h |
| Operational range | -- km |
| Service ceiling | -- m |
| Max. takeoff weight | -- kg |
| Empty weight | -- kg |
| Total thrust | 0 ◉ |
| Wingspan | 8.2 m |
| Length | 9.1 m |
| Maximum speed | 1048 km/h |
| Operational range | 5,600 km |
| Service ceiling | 14,000 m |
| Max. takeoff weight | 2,722 kg |
| Empty weight | 1,134 kg |
| Total thrust | 1 x 8 kN ◉ |
Performance Radar Chart
Detailed Comparison
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which is faster, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or XQ-58 Valkyrie?
The XQ-58 Valkyrie is faster with a maximum speed of 1,048 km/h compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 km/h, a difference of 1,048 km/h.
Which has longer range, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or XQ-58 Valkyrie?
The XQ-58 Valkyrie has a longer range at 5,600 km compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 km.
Which can fly higher, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or XQ-58 Valkyrie?
The XQ-58 Valkyrie has a higher service ceiling at 14,000 meters (45,931 ft) compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 meters (0 ft).
Which is heavier, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or XQ-58 Valkyrie?
The XQ-58 Valkyrie has a higher maximum takeoff weight at 2,722 kg compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 kg.
Which is larger, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or XQ-58 Valkyrie?
The XQ-58 Valkyrie is longer at 9.1 meters compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0.0 meters.