Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems have unveiled a new strategic partnership to develop a family of uncrewed autonomous air systems, bringing together two of the defence sector’s most advanced research divisions – Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and BAE Systems’ FalconWorks.
The collaboration will centre on a common design that is modular, adaptable and rapidly deployable, with multiple launch options including air drop, ground, maritime and wide-body aircraft launch. The first iteration will focus on electronic warfare and attack missions, designed to enhance the survivability of crewed combat aircraft and provide disruptive effects on the battlefield.
Both companies say their shared expertise in rapid prototyping, advanced manufacturing and systems integration will allow them to deliver cost-effective, flexible solutions that can be developed and fielded at pace.
Meeting the need for “combat mass”
The announcement comes as militaries worldwide accelerate investment in a mix of crewed and uncrewed assets, reflecting the need for scalable “combat mass” to support frontline platforms in increasingly complex threat environments. By building modularity into the design, the companies aim to allow for mission reconfiguration and adaptability across different operational domains.
OJ Sanchez, Vice President and General Manager of Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, said the partnership would “deliver game-changing capabilities” and “unlock new possibilities” for customers.
Dave Holmes, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ FalconWorks, added: “Through our collaboration with Lockheed Martin we’ll deliver disruptive capabilities that can make a real difference to our military customers at pace.”
For more articles like this, visit our Automation channel
