Lockheed Martin Unveils Revolutionary Uncrewed Combat Aircraft Vectis
Lockheed Martin has unveiled a revolutionary uncrewed combat aircraft concept called Vectis. This Group 5 system is designed to excel in strike, surveillance, electronic warfare, and escort roles, promising a new era of air power.
Vectis draws on decades of stealth shaping and advanced fighter development, with open-architecture software ensuring adaptability. Its stealth capabilities and materials, derived from previous programmes, enhance survivability in heavily contested environments. The aircraft is intended for both Indo-Pacific and European theatres, offering compatible ranges.
Development is already underway, with test articles being assembled. Lockheed Martin aims to design, build, and fly the system within two years. Vectis is envisioned to fly alongside crewed fighters like the F-35, integrating into the US Air Force's 'family of systems'. The company describes it as a 'new paradigm' based on an agile drone framework, promising high capability, customization, and affordability for mass production.
Vectis, with its stealth, range, and mission flexibility, is poised to reshape air power dynamics. Its development by Lockheed Martin, drawing on extensive experience, signals a significant advancement in uncrewed combat aircraft technology.
