Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems reveal hybrid drone-missile design

Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems have announced a unique collaboration between their secretive research units—Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and BAE Systems’ FalconWorks—to develop a new type of modular, rapidly deployable uncrewed aerial platform. Revealed at the Defense and Security Equipment International (DSEI) exhibition in London, the initial drone aims to be cost-effective with multiple launch options including air drop, ground, maritime, and wide-body logistics aircraft launches. The focus is on electronic warfare and attack capabilities designed to disrupt adversaries and enhance the survivability of crewed combat aircraft, complementing ongoing separate fighter jet development programs by both companies. This partnership is notable because drone platforms are typically developed independently, unlike crewed fighter jets. By combining expertise, Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems seek to quickly produce affordable drone solutions that can operate alongside or protect manned fighters. The conceptual drone design resembles a missile, optimized for low radar signatures with long, narrow wings and potential swarm capabilities,