BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin are advancing Blizzard, a modular autonomous aircraft designed to support electronic warfare and air defence suppression missions, with flight testing planned for 2027 and market entry targeted for 2028.
Developed by BAE Systems’ FalconWorks and Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, Blizzard represents a joint effort to create a rapidly deployable, multi-mission uncrewed system capable of operating independently or as part of a wider group of platforms. The approximately 400-pound aircraft has already completed captive-carry trials and is being developed to provide a range of battlefield effects through adaptable payloads and autonomous collaboration.
The programme builds on a strategic partnership announced by the two companies in September 2025.
A modular platform for electronic warfare missions
Blizzard is being developed as a high-speed, modular vehicle capable of carrying different payloads depending on mission requirements.
The platform is designed to support crewed-uncrewed teaming by operating alongside combat aircraft and providing effects that help protect higher-value platforms. Potential missions include stand-in jamming, where Blizzard could move closer to hostile air defence systems and disrupt their ability to detect and engage friendly forces.
BAE Systems FalconWorks Business Development and Strategy Director Anthony Gregory explained the purpose of the system:
“Blizzard will complement end effects in the battlespace. It will enable other systems to do the job they need to do by decoying, suppressing very hostile threats.”
The aircraft’s open systems architecture is intended to allow faster integration of new payloads and software, while its modular configuration supports different operational requirements.
Two of defence's most secretive labs rarely work together 🤫 This time, they did.
Meet Blizzard: a modular, multi-mission uncrewed air system from BAE Systems FalconWorks and @LockheedMartin Skunk Works®. Multiple launch options. One purpose.
🔗 https://t.co/CBWXKOQ7De pic.twitter.com/H1LWBWl2ki
— BAE Systems (@BAESystemsplc) July 20, 2026
Multiple launch options
One of Blizzard’s key features is its flexibility in deployment. The system is being designed with multiple launch options, including air, ground and maritime configurations, as well as potential palletised deployment from transport aircraft such as the Airbus A400M and Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules.
The platform is also intended to operate in environments where reliable GPS or GNSS signals are unavailable, supporting missions in contested electromagnetic environments.
BAE Systems said the programme reflects the growing demand for adaptable uncrewed capabilities capable of supporting modern military operations.
“Through our collaboration with Lockheed Martin, we’re delivering disruptive capabilities that can make a real difference to our military customers at pace, enabling them to confront the operational requirements of today’s battlefield,” said David Holmes, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ FalconWorks business.
Blizzard remains under development, with flight testing expected in 2027 as BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin continue advancing the platform toward its planned market introduction in 2028.