On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, the American company Lockheed Martin and the British BAE Systems announced a strategic partnership to develop a range of autonomous unmanned aerial systems. As part of the cooperation, their advanced research and development divisions, Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works and BAE Systems’ FalconWorks, will work together on a joint project designed to be modular and rapidly deployable, providing multiple capabilities, including breakthrough technologies.
Image: BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin
Building on both organizations’ experience in rapid design, prototyping, and advanced manufacturing, the partnership will focus on creating an affordable and easily deployable system with multiple launch options. Initially, the companies will concentrate on delivering electronic warfare and strike capabilities that would provide breakthrough advantages and enhance the survivability of existing manned combat aircraft.
From the outset, the system will be designed with modularity and adaptability in mind, allowing it to be tailored to different missions. It will offer multiple launch options, such as air-drop, ground launch, sea launch, and deployment from a wide-body logistics aircraft.
The announcement of the partnership comes at a time when nations are increasingly considering a mix of manned and unmanned assets to meet the demands of today’s rapidly evolving battlespace. The collaboration also responds to the need for the rapid development and fielding of affordable ‘combat mass’ to support existing frontline combat platforms.
“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, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. “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, 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.”
Press Release
Two global innovators.
One powerful partnership.
We’re excited to be working with @LockheedMartin to combine capabilities and develop a range of uncrewed autonomous air systems.
🔗 https://t.co/ImdBFYHfKt pic.twitter.com/PttbJ74tRu
— BAE Systems (@BAESystemsplc) September 9, 2025
