Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and BAE Systems FalconWorks have announced a strategic partnership at the DSEI global defence conference in the United Kingdom. The collaboration aims to develop uncrewed autonomous air systems through their advanced research and development divisions.
The partnership will focus on creating a modular and rapidly deployable system designed for multiple missions, including electronic warfare and attack capabilities. The initial design will support various launch options such as air drop, ground launch, maritime launch, and deployment from wide-body logistic aircraft.
According to both companies, the new system is intended to be cost-effective and adaptable, complementing existing crewed combat aircraft and enhancing survivability on the battlefield. The move comes as military organizations increasingly seek to integrate both crewed and uncrewed assets to address modern operational requirements.
"We're pleased to join forces with BAE Systems, combining our expertise in rapid prototyping and advanced development to deliver game-changing capabilities," said OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. "By working together, we're unlocking new possibilities for our customers and advancing the future of autonomous systems."
Dave Holmes, managing director of BAE Systems' FalconWorks division, added: "Through our collaboration with Lockheed Martin we'll deliver disruptive capabilities that can make a real difference to our military customers at pace, enabling them to confront the operational requirements of today's battlefield."
Lockheed Martin describes itself as a global defense technology company focused on innovation across all domains. More information about its mission solutions can be found at https://www.lockheedmartin.com.
BAE Systems provides products and services for air, land, and naval forces along with advanced electronics and security solutions. Details about its offerings are available at https://www.baesystems.com.
