Lockheed Martin targets 2027 prototype flight for Vectis drone

Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works division is advancing development of the Vectis, an autonomous combat drone designed to support manned aircraft such as the F-35 Lightning II and F-22 Raptor. The company has set a target for the first prototype flight in 2027.

Classified as a Group 5 unmanned aerial vehicle, the Vectis is being positioned as a potential option for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) initiative. The platform is designed to be cost-effective with lower acquisition and maintenance costs than traditional manned jets, while maintaining high survivability in contested combat environments.

The drone features a modular open-system architecture, allowing for rapid integration of various sensors and weapons. Its intended mission profiles include electronic warfare, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strike capabilities.