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Lockheed Skunk Works Unveils Vectis Stealth Wingman Drone, Targets 2027 First Flight

Lockheed is self-funding development, targeting a 2027 flight to field a teaming-capable, open-architecture drone.

Overview

  • Vectis is a Group 5, runway‑operated autonomous aircraft designed for survivability and multi‑mission roles including air‑to‑air, strike, ISR and electronic warfare.
  • Skunk Works says prototype parts are ordered and work is underway, with a first flight planned within about two years, by the end of 2027.
  • Lockheed describes compatibility with F‑22 and F‑35 operations and alignment to government reference architectures to enable open systems and avoid vendor lock‑in.
  • The design emphasizes affordability at a CCA price point while leveraging stealth and materials for what the company calls best‑in‑class survivability, with endurance sized for Indo‑Pacific, European and CENTCOM theaters.
  • The company presents Vectis as a potential candidate for future CCA increments rather than a bid for a specific competition, noting specifications and performance remain largely undisclosed beyond company statements.