Vectis

Vectis overview

Vectis is a Group 5 collaborative combat aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin Skunk Works for autonomous teaming with crewed fighters such as the F-35. Introduced in September 2025, the low-observable jet is intended to carry modular internal payloads for strike, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and distributed sensing while using open mission systems for rapid upgrades.

Lockheed selected Williams International's mature FJ44-4 turbofan for the prototype in December 2025, a choice intended to reduce propulsion risk and accelerate flight testing. Integration and ground work continued through 2026.

Because Vectis is an active combat-aircraft program, the company has not published geometry, range, speed, ceiling, signature, payload mass, or unit cost. Its Group 5 class, survivability focus, F-35 teaming role, and engine selection are the principal confirmed public facts; the aircraft remains a development effort rather than a fielded loyal wingman.

Armament

Internal modular weapons or electronic mission payload; loadout undisclosed

Development and operational timeline

1. Sep 2025Lockheed Martin Skunk Works introduces Vectis as a survivable Group 5 collaborative combat aircraft
2. Dec 2025Williams International FJ44-4 turbofan is selected for the Vectis demonstrator
3. Jan 2026Prototype power and systems integration proceeds toward ground and flight testing
4. Aug 2026Vectis remains in development with no public operational fielding date or complete performance data