Skunk Works reveals Vectis, a CCA for American and allied militaries
The Vectis has a highly capable, customisable and affordable agile drone framework, according to Skunk Works. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
The configuration of the uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) is stealthy and affordable, with “advanced manufacturing and digital engineering techniques” contributing to reducing costs and achieving affordable combat mass, according to Lockheed Martin.
Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works unveiled the Group 5 (MALE) UAV on 21 September 2025, pitching it as a survivable, stealthy, modular and lethal collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) for the US and the international market.
Lockheed describes the UAV as having a “customisable and affordable agile drone framework”, featuring open mission architectures, aligning with Government Reference Architecture.
In terms of being paired with crewed fighters, the system will integrate with fifth and next-gen aircraft. Lockheed stated the aircraft had MDCX and other common control systems. It will provide multi-domain connectivity, whether standalone or as part of integrated teaming missions with crewed
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Portugal signals interest in establishing A-29N final assembly line]()
Portugal signals interest in establishing A-29N final assembly line
As the launch customer for the NATO-configured variant, Portugal also took delivery of the first five A-29N aircraft from its order for 12, placed in 2024.
-
![Podcast: Critical Care episode 5 - Sustaining Europe’s frontline from Heidelberg]()
Podcast: Critical Care episode 5 - Sustaining Europe’s frontline from Heidelberg
As Europe ramps up defence investment in the wake of the Ukraine crisis, the spotlight is turning to how nations sustain their growing fleets.
-
![Leonardo signs contract on Austria’s M-346 aircraft order]()
Leonardo signs contract on Austria’s M-346 aircraft order
The first of the 12 M-346 aircraft are expected to be delivered to the Austrian Air Force by 2028, according to the company.
-
![German Navy in “ramp-up” phase as it welcomes first NH90 Sea Tiger delivery]()
German Navy in “ramp-up” phase as it welcomes first NH90 Sea Tiger delivery
With all 31 aircraft set to be delivered by 2030, the helicopters will gradually replace the ageing Sea Lynx fleet which are due to be retired in 2026.
