Lockheed Martin Skunk Works Showcases AI‑Driven Mission‑Contingency Management

Lockheed Martin Skunk Works^® has successfully completed a live demonstration of artificial-intelligence-driven mission contingency management (AI/MCM) using a Stalker XE Block 25 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and a modified Alta X 2.0 drone from Drone Amplified. The test showcases how AI can automatically replan and reassign tasks during unexpected mission disruptions, supporting the transition toward more autonomous unmanned operations.

During the demonstration, multiple fuel-related contingencies were simulated. Within seconds, the AI in the ground command-and-control (C2) system analyzed the scenario, generated alternative mission plans, and presented them to the operator. After the operator selected a preferred option, the AI reassigned the Stalker’s mission tasks to the Alta X and instructed the Stalker to return to base. By allowing the AI agent to handle the contingency, operators were able to resolve the issue quickly while remaining focused on other critical mission responsibilities.

The Stalker UAV contributed mission data to a unified C2 node that simultaneously managed an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) in Kansas—supported by additional UAVs provided by Fulcrum—demonstrating multi-domain unmanned air-and-ground (UxV) control. Together, the assets showed how a single mobile command node can coordinate multiple geographically separated drone meshes across mounted, dismounted, and low-signature environments.

The demonstration also leveraged Lockheed Martin’s STAR.SDK™—part of the STAR.OS™ constellation—which enables rapid development and deployment of AI services. STAR.SDK connected the contingency application to a user interface, allowing operators to interact with a chat-based assistant that provided real-time re-tasking options. Designed for interoperability, STAR.OS ensures that AI systems across domains, including unmanned platforms, work together seamlessly.

The successful test reinforces Lockheed Martin’s commitment to advancing autonomous technologies and open architectures that strengthen multi-domain integration and support U.S. and allied warfighters.