The Norwegian Army has officially welcomed its first Valkyrie drone swarm, developed by Six Robotics, along with comprehensive training and onboarding services for its operators. This advancement marks a significant step in the collaboration between Six Robotics, based in Oslo, and the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, focusing on the ongoing development of the Valkyrie system. Additional drone systems are expected to arrive in the coming months to enhance the army’s capabilities.
Following the initial delivery, the drones will undergo operational testing within maneuver units and at the Army Weapons School. The insights gained from these real-world trials will play a crucial role in further refining the system, according to Dr. Jan Dyre Bjerknes, Chief Technology Officer of Six Robotics. He highlighted the importance of involving frontline operators in the development process, stating, “If you are not close to the operators who will use the product, you quickly end up building the wrong things.”
Dr. Bjerknes underscored the necessity of practical testing, emphasizing, “We need to see what works and what doesn’t, not in theory, but in practice.” This hands-on approach aims to ensure that the Valkyrie system effectively addresses real challenges faced by soldiers on the ground.
The Valkyrie system is designed to enable autonomous assets to collaborate on a large scale, regardless of the platform or mission type. Christian Fredrik Eggesbo, Founder and CEO of Six Robotics, previously shared insights into the system’s capabilities in an interview, noting its potential to enhance operational efficiency.
The Norwegian Army has already showcased the Valkyrie technology in joint exercises with allied forces from Sweden and Finland, demonstrating its versatility and effectiveness in a multi-national operational context. Recently, the army initiated a pilot program involving several units to evaluate the system’s performance and its potential to improve military operations. The aim is to integrate the drones into training exercises that prepare soldiers for future combat scenarios characterized by increased autonomy and speed. This initiative reflects a commitment to advancing military technology and enhancing readiness in an increasingly complex battlefield environment.
