Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and BAE Systems FalconWorks have formed a strategic partnership to develop a range of uncrewed autonomous air systems. The agreement was presented at the DSEI defence conference earlier this month in London.

The partnership will see their advanced research and development divisions collaborate on a common design that will be modular and rapidly deployable. The system will be designed to deliver multiple effects, with an initial focus on electronic warfare and attack missions.

The design will be adaptable for different missions and feature multiple launch options, including 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, says: “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, adds: “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.”