Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and BAE Systems FalconWorks forge strategic ties on autonomous air systems
September 9, 2025
Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems have announced a strategic collaboration to develop a new generation of uncrewed autonomous air systems.
The partnership will bring together their advanced research and development units – Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works and BAE Systems’ FalconWorks – to design a rapidly deployable, modular system capable of delivering disruptive operational effects.
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Lockheed Martin and BAE team up for rapid, modular deployment
The joint effort will leverage the rapid design, prototyping, and advanced manufacturing expertise of both organisations to produce a cost-effective system with versatile launch options.
Initially, the focus will be on creating an electronic warfare and attack capability intended to enhance and complement the survivability of current crewed combat aircraft.
Designed for modularity and adaptability, the system will support various missions and offer multiple launch modes, including air drop, ground launch, maritime launch, and deployment from wide-body logistics aircraft.
This flexibility aims to provide militaries with affordable, scalable ‘combat mass’ to quickly reinforce frontline platforms in a rapidly evolving battlespace.
Responding to changing battlefield needs
The announcement comes amid growing global interest in combining crewed and uncrewed assets to meet modern operational demands.
Defence forces are increasingly seeking innovative solutions that enable the swift development and deployment of autonomous systems to maintain tactical advantages.
“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 of Lockheed Martin Skunk Works.
“By working together, we’re unlocking new possibilities for our customers and advancing the future of autonomous systems.”
Skunk Works, founded in 1943, is Lockheed Martin’s leading source of advanced technology solutions.
Echoing this sentiment, Dave Holmes, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ FalconWorks, remarked, “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.”
