Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works division has unveiled the concept design of the company’s unmanned carrier launched airborne surveillance and strike (UCLASS) air vehicle, that integrates technologies from F-35C, RQ-170 and other systems to provide persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) and light strike capabilities. Artist’s renderings of the designs were presented at the company’s booth during the Navy League’s annual Sea Air Space conference.

According to Lockheed, UCLASS will balance endurance, early operational capability and inherent growth that will enable operations in any environment or threat scenario. Envisaged to be a versatile, carrier-based unmanned aircraft system, the UCLASS will feature integration of proven technologies; persistent 24/7 ISR operations; full spectrum adaptability; signature control; open systems architecture; reduced manpower requirements for command, control, and maintenance; and future growth provisions. The project is a part of the US Navy’s bid for the next attack jet.