Skunk Works and FalconWorks Announce Strategic Collaboration

Rhea-AI Summary

Lockheed Martin Skunk Works (NYSE: LMT) and BAE Systems FalconWorks have announced a strategic partnership at DSEI defence conference to develop uncrewed autonomous air systems. The collaboration aims to create rapidly deployable, modular systems with multiple launch capabilities including air drop, ground launch, maritime launch, and wide-body logistic aircraft launch.

The initial focus will be on developing electronic warfare and attack capabilities to enhance the survivability of current crewed combat aircraft. The partnership leverages both companies' expertise in rapid prototyping and advanced manufacturing to deliver cost-effective solutions for military customers seeking to develop affordable 'combat mass' to support existing frontline combat platforms.

Positive

• Strategic partnership between two leading defense technology companies
• Development of modular and adaptable autonomous air systems with multiple launch options
• Focus on cost-effective and rapidly deployable solutions
• Potential to enhance existing combat aircraft capabilities

Negative

• Initial development phase with no immediate revenue impact
• Success dependent on military customer adoption and funding

News Market Reaction

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-0.45% News Effect

On the day this news was published, LMT declined 0.45%, reflecting a mild negative market reaction.

Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.

LONDON, Sept. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin Skunk Works^® (NYSE: LMT) and BAE Systems FalconWorks (LSE: BAES) announced a strategic partnership at DSEI global defence conference in the United Kingdom, to develop a range of uncrewed autonomous air systems. The collaboration will see their advanced research and development divisions – Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and BAE Systems' FalconWorks – work together on a common design that will be rapidly deployable and modular to deliver a range of effects, including disruptive capabilities.

Drawing on both organisations' rapid design, prototyping and advanced manufacturing expertise, the collaboration will focus on producing a cost-effective and easily deployable system with multiple launch options. It will initially focus on delivering an electronic warfare and attack capability that would deliver disruptive capabilities and could complement and enhance the survivability of current crewed combat aircraft.

The initial system will be designed with modularity and adaptability for different missions, and offer multiple launch options such as air drop, ground launch, maritime launch and launch from a wide-body logistic aircraft.

The announcement comes at a time when nations are increasingly looking towards developing a mix of crewed and uncrewed assets to address the requirements of today's rapidly evolving battlespace – and the need to be able to quickly develop and field affordable 'combat mass' to support existing frontline combat platforms.

"We're pleased to join forces with BAE Systems, combining our expertise in rapid prototyping and advanced development to deliver game-changing capabilities," said OJ Sanchez, vice president and general manager, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. "By working together, we're unlocking new possibilities for our customers and advancing the future of autonomous systems."

Dave Holmes, managing director of BAE Systems' FalconWorks division, said: "Through our collaboration with Lockheed Martin we'll deliver disruptive capabilities that can make a real difference to our military customers at pace, enabling them to confront the operational requirements of today's battlefield."

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.

About BAE
BAE Systems is a global defence, security, and aerospace company that delivers a range of products and services for air, land, and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions, and customer support services. More information at baesystems.com.

 

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SOURCE Lockheed Martin Aeronautics

FAQ

What is the new partnership between Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and BAE Systems FalconWorks?

The partnership focuses on developing uncrewed autonomous air systems with electronic warfare and attack capabilities, featuring multiple launch options and modular design for various missions.

How will the Lockheed Martin (LMT) and BAE Systems collaboration affect military capabilities?

The collaboration aims to deliver cost-effective, rapidly deployable autonomous systems that can enhance the survivability of crewed combat aircraft and provide additional 'combat mass' for military operations.

What launch options will be available for the new autonomous air systems?

The systems will offer multiple launch options including air drop, ground launch, maritime launch, and launch from wide-body logistic aircraft.

When was the Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and FalconWorks partnership announced?

The strategic partnership was announced on September 9, 2025 at the DSEI global defence conference in the United Kingdom.

What is the main focus of the Lockheed Martin (LMT) and BAE Systems autonomous systems development?

The initial focus is on developing electronic warfare and attack capabilities that can deliver disruptive technologies and enhance the survivability of current crewed combat aircraft.