Lockheed Martin unveils full-size Vectis stealth drone to partner with F-35 jets

At the 2026 AFA Air, Space & Cyber event, Lockheed Martin presented a life-size model of its Vectis stealth drone, a remotely piloted aircraft meant to fly in concert with F-35 fighters. The company aims to boost targeting precision and increase pilot survivability, especially in the Far East where advanced Chinese fighters, long-range missiles and electronic-warfare systems threaten U.S. air crews. Engineers have rapidly progressed from initial sketches to wind-tunnel tests, digital modeling and component production within months, and a maiden flight is slated for 2027 using a Williams International FJ44-4 engine.

Although specific capabilities were not disclosed, the drone is expected to conduct deep-strike reconnaissance, gather target data, support electronic warfare and draw enemy attention away from manned aircraft. Similar stealth UAV projects are being evaluated by General Atomics, Anduril and Boeing, highlighting a broader shift toward unmanned combat support.