Lockheed Martin’s secretive Skunk Works division unveiled its new drone wingman, Vectis, designed for surveillance, electronic warfare, precision strikes, and aerial combat.
The aircraft, smaller than an F-16 but larger than the Common Multi-Mission Truck missile, is stealthy, reusable, runway-dependent, and compatible with other aircraft like the F-22 and F-35.
Skunk Works emphasized that Vectis was developed over time, building on decades of experience with advanced aircraft like the U-2, SR-71, and F-117.
While technical details such as its engine remain undisclosed, the drone is intended for operations in the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Europe, Axios has reported.
The Air Force and Navy are actively seeking such autonomous “robo-wingmen” to accompany pilots in future missions.
