The Vectis system draws on Lockheed Martin’s decades of experience in fighter aircraft, autonomous systems, and open mission architectures. It offers a highly capable, customisable, and affordable agile drone framework built to integrate seamlessly with both fifth-generation and next-generation aircraft.

“Vectis is the culmination of our expertise in complex systems integration, advanced fighter development and autonomy,” said OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. “We’re not simply building a new platform – we’re creating a new paradigm for air power.”

Key Features of Vectis:

• Integration: Works across the Family of Systems vision for next-gen air dominance and is compatible with existing command and control systems such as MDCX™.
• Mission Flexibility: Configured for precision strike, ISR targeting, electronic warfare, and both offensive and defensive counter-air missions, with connectivity across multiple domains.
• Extended Range: Endurance tailored for Indo-Pacific, European, and Central Command theatres.
• Stealth and Survivability: Incorporates decades of Skunk Works’ advancements in stealth and survivability.
• Affordability: Uses advanced manufacturing and digital engineering techniques to deliver at a competitive CCA price point.
• Open Systems: Built on government reference architectures to avoid vendor lock and ensure interoperability.

Development is underway, with parts ordered and testing in progress. Skunk Works is investing heavily to ensure Vectis delivers high survivability and mission capability at an aggressive cost and timeline — aiming to design, build, and fly within two years.

Lockheed Martin emphasises that Vectis reflects its ongoing commitment to solving the most challenging problems for warfighters by leveraging speed, altitude, stealth, and advanced materials.