Skunk Works, XTEND Advance Multi-Class Drone Command Control

Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and XTEND have expanded their collaboration to integrate XTEND’s operating system into the Skunk Works MDCX™ autonomy platform, enabling simultaneous command and control of multiple classes of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) within joint all-domain command and control (JADC2) environments.

The integration combines XTEND’s operating system (XOS) with Skunk Works’ MDCX™ autonomy platform to support coordinated mission execution across heterogeneous drone classes. The approach is designed to improve situational awareness and reduce operational complexity during distributed and multi-domain missions.

The two organizations recently demonstrated an integrated multi-class MDCX (MC-MDCX) workstation supporting a marsupial drone mission concept. During the demon

stration, a larger-class UAS deployed a smaller Class 1 drone to conduct a close-range mission task, illustrating coordinated control across platforms.

In traditional operational models, control of larger UAS is typically delegated to a separate operator for smaller Class 1 or Class 2 vehicles, which requires mission handoffs and multiple control stations. These lower-tier controls often include first-person video views, mark-and-fly commands, and immersive interfaces tailored to close-in mission execution. With the integration of XOS into the MC-MDCX platform, a single operator can manage both the carrier and deployed systems within a unified control environment.

According to the companies, the demonstration showed a reduction in overall manpower requirements for complex mission execution by eliminating the need for handoffs between operators. The integrated approach also improved situational awareness across the mission space by consolidating command-and-control functions into a single workstation.

XTEND’s drone command-and-control technologies are currently deployed by military organizations worldwide. The company’s systems are designed to support operations in contested environments, including scenarios where Global Positioning System (GPS) signals are denied or radio-frequency datalinks are disrupted. XOS enables operators to conduct missions with near-expert proficiency, reducing training time and supporting informed decision-making during dynamic operations.

Lockheed Martin Skunk Works continues to focus on advancing piloted–unpiloted teaming concepts to improve operational flexibility, compress data-to-decision timelines, and enhance pilot safety. The collaboration with XTEND is part of broader efforts to apply autonomous systems and human–machine teaming techniques to future JADC2 mission architectures.

About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company focused on advancing scientific discovery and delivering all-domain mission solutions. Its work supports aerospace, defense, and security customers worldwide. To learn more, please click here.

About XTEND
XTEND develops AI-driven autonomous and tactical drone systems for defense, law enforcement, and security applications. The company’s XOS operating system integrates human intelligence with machine autonomy to enhance operator effectiveness. XTEND operates globally with offices in the United States, Israel, Singapore, and Latvia.  For more information, please click here.

Source/Photo Credit: Lockheed Martin

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