Lockheed Martin Skunk Works® Showcases AI‑Driven Mission‑Contingency Management on an Autonomous UAV Demonstration

Rhea-AI Summary

Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) on Dec. 4, 2025 completed a live demonstration of AI‑driven mission contingency management (AI/MCM) using a Stalker XE Block 25 UAV and an Alta X 2.0 drone modified by Drone Amplified.

The test simulated fuel contingencies: within seconds the ground C2 system's AI analyzed options, presented re‑plans to an operator, reassigned the Stalker’s tasks to the Alta X and commanded the Stalker to return to base. A unified C2 node also managed an unmanned ground vehicle in Kansas and UAVs provided by Fulcrum, showing multi‑domain UxV control.

The team used STAR.SDK as part of the STAR.OS constellation to connect the contingency app to a chat assistant UI. Lockheed Martin described the demo as advancing autonomous unmanned operations and multi‑domain integration for warfighters.

Insights

Defense systems integration analyst

Live AI-driven contingency demo shows practical unmanned re-tasking and multi-domain control, improving operational autonomy and command efficiency.

Lockheed Martin demonstrated an AI mission‑contingency manager that analyzed fuel contingency scenarios, generated replan options, and automatically reassigned tasks between a Stalker XE Block 25 UAV and an Alta X 2.0 once an operator selected an option. The test also integrated an Unmanned Ground Vehicle and additional UAVs into a unified C2 node, showing a single mobile command node can coordinate geographically separated air and ground unmanned assets.

The capability reduces operator workload by surfacing viable replans within seconds and automating task reassignment, which can shorten decision loops in time‑sensitive situations. Key dependencies include the reliability of the AI decision logic, robustness of communications between distributed platforms, and operator trust in automated re-tasking; any weakness in these areas could limit real‑world utility. Watch for follow‑on field tests, integration with production platforms, and formal adoption timelines to assess transition from demonstration to deployed capability within the next 12–24 months.

FORT WORTH, Texas, Dec. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) Skunk Works^® successfully completed a live demonstration of artificial intelligence driven mission contingency management (AI/MCM) on a Stalker XE Block 25 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and an Alta X 2.0 drone modified by Drone Amplified. This test demonstrates how AI can automatically adjust an unmanned mission when an unexpected problem occurs, advancing the shift towards more autonomous unmanned operations.

The test simulated multiple variations of fuel contingencies. Within seconds, the ground command-and-control (C2) system's AI analyzed the situation, generated re-plan options and displayed them to the operator. Once the operator selected a preferred option, the AI automatically reassigned the Stalker's mission tasks to the Alta X and commanded the Stalker to return to base. By letting the AI agent handle the unexpected contingency, the operator could resolve the problem quickly while staying focused on other critical mission duties.

The Stalker UAV contributed its mission data to a unified C2 node that also managed an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) in Kansas, with support from UAVs provided by Fulcrum, proving unmanned‑air‑and‑ground (UxV) control. Together they show how a single mobile command node can mutually support, and direct multiple geographically separated drone meshes in mounted, dismounted, and below-the-noise configurations.

"This demonstration proves AI can move from the lab to the battlefield, delivering a multitude of capabilities ranging from autonomous decision-making to rapid data flow between unmanned vehicles across air, ground and synthetic environments," said OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. "By fusing AI‑enabled UAV replanning with UGV capabilities, we give warfighters the safety, speed and confidence they need to act first in contested environments."

The team also leveraged Lockheed Martin's STAR.SDK™ solution. As part of the STAR.OS™ constellation, STAR.SDK helps developers create and deploy AI services quickly and efficiently so they can focus on the mission at hand. STAR.SDK was used to connect the contingency application to a user interface, which enabled operators to interact with a chat assistant that provided re-tasking options. The STAR.OS solution enables different AI systems to work together seamlessly — including unmanned systems.

This demonstration marks Lockheed Martin's ongoing commitment to deliver autonomous capabilities and open architecture that expands multi‑domain integration and empowers America's warfighters and allies.

For additional information, visit our website: https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/capabilities/multi-domain-operations.html

About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security^® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at Lockheedmartin.com. 

 

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SOURCE Lockheed Martin Aeronautics

FAQ

What did Lockheed Martin (LMT) demonstrate on Dec. 4, 2025?

Lockheed Martin demonstrated AI‑driven mission contingency management using a Stalker XE Block 25 UAV and an Alta X 2.0, showing automatic replanning and task reassignment.

How fast did the AI C2 system replan during the LMT demonstration?

The release says the AI analyzed contingencies and generated replan options within seconds before operator selection.

Which platforms were integrated in Lockheed Martin's multi‑domain demo (LMT)?

The demo integrated a Stalker XE Block 25 UAV, an Alta X 2.0 drone modified by Drone Amplified, UAVs from Fulcrum, and an unmanned ground vehicle in Kansas.

What software did Lockheed Martin use to connect AI services in the Dec. 4, 2025 demo?

The team used STAR.SDK as part of the STAR.OS constellation to connect the contingency application to a chat assistant user interface.

What operational benefit did Lockheed Martin claim from the AI/MCM demo (LMT)?

Lockheed Martin said the AI allowed faster contingency resolution, automatic task reassignment, and enabled operators to focus on other mission duties.

Does the LMT demo show multi‑domain control between air and ground systems?

Yes; the demo used a unified C2 node to manage both unmanned aerial vehicles and an unmanned ground vehicle, demonstrating UxV air‑and‑ground coordination.