Lockheed Martin, established in 1995 and headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, is a leading global aerospace, defense, and security company. The company specializes in the research, design, development, manufacture, and maintenance of advanced technology systems, products, and services. Its core business areas include aeronautics, missiles and fire control, rotary and mission systems, and space systems. Lockheed Martin is renowned for producing fighter jets like the F-35 Lightning II, missile defense systems, and satellite technologies. With operations in over 50 countries and a workforce of approximately 110,000 employees, the company is committed to delivering innovative solutions that contribute to global security and advancement in aerospace technology.
The successful flights are a significant milestone for Skunk Works' Tactical AI team, in which AI directly flew and conducted tactical exercises with a full-scale, live aircraft.
If selected to produce an air vehicle for a future ANCILLARY phase, Sikorsky plans to build a 300-pound hybrid-electric version to include a 60-pound ISR payload.
This test marks the first time PAC-3 MSE was launched in this configuration, utilizing the Virtualized Aegis Weapon System, to intercept a live target.