Lockheed Martin has announced that its Vectis stealth combat UAV program has reached a new milestone…
Under the program, which is being led by the Skunk Works division, the platform’s first flight is expected to take place in 2027.
The aircraft’s design reflects the U.S. Air Force’s growing interest in lower-cost unmanned aircraft capable of supporting its 5th-generation fighter fleet.
Vectis is intended to operate alongside the F-35 and F-22 5th-generation fighters, as well as future next-generation combat platforms.
Vectis is designed to perform air-to-air combat, precision strike, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), electronic warfare, and both offensive and defensive counter-air missions.
Its stealth design is intended to enhance survivability in high-threat airspace, while its open systems architecture is planned to enable the integration of various sensors, weapons, and communication systems onto the platform…