Lockheed Martin Skunk Works has a long history of new and inventive projects, ranging from its initial project, the U-2 spy plane, to more modern designs like the F-22 and F-35. This legacy of odd and often stealthy technology continues with the announcement of the Lockheed Martin Vectis, one of the first drones made for air-to-air combat.
The Vectis is being designed around two main points: integration and mission flexibility.
The most notable of the two being its ability to integrate with the F-35, a feature that was overlooked during the F-35’s release. Essentially, the pilot of an F-35 can control not only their plane, but also the several drones surrounding it, with the help of AI to perform the functions of the several other drones.
As a part of the Vectis’ air-to-air combat, it will have increased maneuverability compared to the average manned fighter because it doesn’t have to worry about the biology of a human when performing tight turns.
In addition to the air-to-air combat, the Vectis will be able to execute precision strikes, do surveillance over future targets and participate in electronic warfare.
“Lockheed Martin Vectis is the culmination of our expertise in complex systems integration, advanced fighter development and autonomy,” said OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin Skunk Works.
In response to Lockheed Martin, Boeing announced that they are beginning production on the F-47, a sixth generation fighter jet that is going to replace the F-22 when it enters service in 2028. Theoretically, the F-47 and Vectis may work together on future missions due to the Air Force’s increasing interest in mixing manned planes with unmanned drones.
The Vectis will be able to fly at around the same time as the F-47, with the Vectis scheduled to be built and flying within the next two years.
“Lockheed Martin Vectis’ development is underway,” said Sanchez. “Parts are ordered and a team is executing.”
Overall, the releases of these two new aircrafts show a promising future for the protection of the United States and air superiority.
