Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and BAE Systems’ FalconWorks announce strategic collaboration

BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin have announced a strategic partnership to develop a range of uncrewed autonomous air systems.

The collaboration will see the two defence giant’s advanced research and development divisions - Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and BAE System's FalconWorks at Warton in Lancashire - work together on a common design.

The aim is to create a design that will be rapidly deployable and modular and able to deliver a range of effects, including disruptive capabilities.

Drawing on both organisations’ rapid design, prototyping and advanced manufacturing expertise, the collaboration will focus on producing “a cost-effective and easily deployable system” with multiple launch options.

It will initially work on delivering an electronic warfare and attack that is able to deliver disruptive capabilities.

The initial system will be designed to offer multiple launch options such as air drop, ground launch, maritime launch and launch from a wide-body logistic aircraft.

BAE Systems and US firm Lockheed Martin are already key partners in the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet programme.

BAE manufactures the rear fuselage of the fighter at its Samlesbury plant in Lancashire.

FalconWorks is the defence giant’s centre for advanced research and technology development in its Air Sector business.

Dave Holmes, managing director of BAE Systems’ FalconWorks division, said: “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.”

OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, added: "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."

BAE Systems employs 13,700 people across Lancashire with the vast majority working at its aircraft making plans in Warton and Samlesbury.