Skunk Works is expanding Vectis production ahead of the aircraft’s planned first flight in 2027. Lockheed Martin said investment in advanced design and manufacturing is helping accelerate development of the autonomous platform.
In air defense, the company introduced PAC-3 Adapted Capability Effector, or PAC-3 ACE, which draws on existing PAC-3 technology. It says the interceptor is designed to counter air and missile threats at less than half the per-unit cost of PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement, or PAC-3 MSE.
PAC-3 ACE is intended for rapid fielding through American and European partnerships. Lockheed Martin said those relationships would strengthen the defense industrial base and give U.S. and allied customers more affordable air defense options.
Building capacity. Accelerating production. Delivering the capabilities our customers need.
See how we’re investing in the defense industrial base. https://t.co/3J0JjIUpIJ
— Lockheed Martin (@LockheedMartin) October 22, 2026
The F-35 program reached a milestone with the presentation of Germany’s first F-35A Lightning II. The company said the aircraft would support Germany’s transition to the platform and strengthen NATO interoperability and mission readiness.
Lockheed Martin is also investing millions of dollars in a Modular Payload Delivery System for hypersonic missions. The system is intended to accommodate different payloads while reducing development time and costs.
Separately, the company signed a framework agreement with the Department of War to accelerate production and delivery of the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile. Lockheed Martin said that effort would advance an air-to-air weapon designed for greater range and effectiveness against current and emerging threats.
