Lockheed Martin Introduces Versatile Counter-UAS Defense System

Lockheed Martin Introduces Versatile Counter-UAS Defense System
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Mar 04, 2025

With small Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) presenting an evolving security challenge, Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) is pioneering a novel strategy to counter these emerging threats. In a recent field demonstration, the company unveiled a scalable, multi-layered defense system engineered to detect, track, identify, and neutralize UAS.

This adaptable, open-architecture solution integrates advanced command and control with Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven detection and tracking software, cost-effective sensors, and a growing array of countermeasures. The system is designed for swift deployment and seamless interoperability with other defense platforms.

"Integrating diverse sensors through a user-optimized command and control (C2) system helps simplify threat identification, and we have the complementary technology offerings to convert collected data into actionable information," said Tyler Griffin, C-UAS director at Lockheed Martin. "Our open architecture approach offers an agile, layered defense solution that accelerates outcomes relative to this dynamic threat. This foundational demo highlights how we can deliver the mission today and sets the stage for what Lockheed Martin and our partners will deliver in weeks and months ahead."

Key Features:

- Modular Design: The system's open-architecture framework allows for rapid integration of leading-edge sensors, effectors, and C2 upgrades, ensuring adaptability to evolving threats.

- AI-Enhanced Detection: Leveraging extensive real-world operational data, the AI-driven software enhances threat recognition, tracking, and response capabilities, improving efficiency against both isolated threats and drone swarms.

- Scalability: Designed to foster seamless collaboration with partners, the solution ensures users can remain ahead of shifting threats.

- Demonstrated Effectiveness: In a successful field exercise, Lockheed Martin and its partners showcased the system's ability to detect, track, and mitigate a variety of small UAS threats, including both individual drones and coordinated swarm attacks. This milestone underscores the company's commitment to delivering scalable and integrated counter-UAS solutions.

Importance of Rapid Response: Given that defenders often have only minutes to detect, track, and neutralize an incoming drone swarm, rapid coordination is critical. Sensors must swiftly relay data to a command and control system capable of sorting targets, assigning appropriate countermeasures, and managing multiple engagements simultaneously.

Lockheed Martin's innovative approach, rooted in open architecture, enables customers to integrate cutting-edge technologies efficiently. The company's expertise in systems integration and AI-powered software further enhances resilience against evolving aerial threats. As the counter-UAS landscape continues to evolve, Lockheed Martin remains committed to delivering flexible, scalable defense capabilities.