Skunk Works and Falcon Works join forces on air systems

Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems have announced a strategic partnership to co-develop a new family of uncrewed air systems, bringing together two of the defence sector’s most advanced research divisions: Skunk Works and FalconWorks.

The collaboration will focus on a rapidly deployable, modular design that can deliver a range of disruptive effects, including electronic warfare and strike missions. The companies say the system will be cost-effective and adaptable, with options for air drop, ground launch, maritime launch and deployment from wide-body logistic aircraft.

OJ Sanchez, Vice President and General Manager at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, said: “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 FalconWorks, framed the effort as a response to shifting operational needs. “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 system will be designed to complement existing frontline aircraft, increasing survivability while providing affordable “combat mass” at a time when many armed forces are moving toward mixed fleets of crewed and uncrewed platforms. Both firms emphasised that their shared focus on modularity and rapid prototyping will allow the design to evolve quickly for different mission sets.