BAE Systems’ FalconWorks® and Lockheed Martin Skunk Works® have entered into a strategic partnership to develop a range of uncrewed autonomous air systems.
The collaboration will see their advanced research and development divisions work together on a common design that will be rapidly deployable and modular to deliver a range of effects, including disruptive capabilities.
Drawing on both organisations’ expertise in rapid design, prototyping and advanced manufacturing, the partnership will focus on producing a cost-effective, easily deployable system with multiple launch options. It will initially concentrate on delivering an electronic-warfare and attack capability that delivers disruptive effects and can complement and enhance the survivability of current crewed combat aircraft.
The initial system will be designed for modularity and adaptability across different missions, and will offer multiple launch options such as air drop, ground launch, maritime launch and launch from a wide-body logistic aircraft.
OJ Sanchez, Vice President and General Manager, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, commented, “We’re pleased to join forces with BAE Systems, combining our expertise in rapid prototyping and advanced development to deliver game-changing capabilities. 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 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.”
The announcement comes as nations increasingly develop a mix of crewed and uncrewed assets to address the requirements of a rapidly evolving battlespace, and as defence planners emphasise the need to quickly develop and field affordable ‘combat mass’ to support existing frontline platforms.
