The Lockheed Martin Vectis™ Prototype is Powering Up

The Lockheed Martin Skunk Works® Vectis uncrewed aircraft prototype will fly with Williams International’s FJ44-4 turbofan engine, providing a fast, reliable and affordable propulsion system for the program’s demonstrator.  

Skunk Works® is leading an aggressive design-build-fly timeline for Vectis, targeting first flight in 2027.

“By leveraging a mature, rugged turbofan, we can accelerate our timeline and demonstrate a game‑changing capability quickly, said Peter McArdle, Integrated Systems program director, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works®. “Our vision for Vectis is bold, and we’re excited to bring it to life with speed and affordability.”

The FJ44-4 is a proven system that delivers more than 3,600 pounds of thrust from a compact, twin‑spool architecture, enabling the aircraft to achieve the speed, range and endurance required for next‑generation missions.

Skunk Works® and Williams have collaborated on diverse projects for decades, and Vectis is another example of the two organizations partnering to deliver critical, affordable capability at speed.

Vectis is a clean sheet, internally funded solution to the diverse and demanding operational threat environment, delivering best in class survivability, lethality and flexibility. Vectis builds on decades of industry-leading experience to integrate advanced, mission-focused capability at aggressive speed and cost targets.