What's Happening?
BAE Systems' FalconWorks and Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works have announced a partnership to develop unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for the United Kingdom. The collaboration was revealed at the DSEI 2025 exhibition in London. The systems are designed to be rapidly deployable and modular, offering multiple launch options such as airdrop, ground launch, and maritime launch. The focus is on delivering electronic warfare and attack capabilities to suppress enemy air defenses, enhancing the survivability of crewed combat aircraft. This initiative aligns with the UK's effort to field an unmanned adjunct to its manned combat aircraft.
Why It's Important?
The partnership is significant as it addresses the need for advanced electronic warfare capabilities in modern military operations. By focusing on modularity and adaptability, BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin aim to provide armed forces with tools that can be rapidly deployed and updated, enhancing their ability to operate in complex electronic warfare environments. This collaboration could lead to advancements in military technology, potentially benefiting defense strategies and operations globally. The partnership also highlights the importance of international cooperation in defense technology development.
What's Next?
As the partnership progresses, BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin plan to unveil specific applications for their unmanned aircraft systems. Cost considerations will play a crucial role in the design process, ensuring the systems are affordable and effective. The companies are adopting an open systems approach, focusing on integration capabilities and modular architecture to enable ongoing updates. This framework will ensure the systems remain contemporary and effective over time. The collaboration is expected to complement the capabilities offered by MBDA, where BAE Systems holds a significant stake.
