Lockheed Martin’s Sikorsky Launches Nomad VTOL Drone Line for Future Combat Missions

Sikorsky, a division of Lockheed Martin, has announced the launch of the Nomad family of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drones. The new rotor-blown wing aircraft are intended for missions such as reconnaissance, surveillance, resupply, and light strike operations. The systems are designed to operate without runways and support U.S. and allied forces in varied environments.

The Nomad series uses a twin proprotor and fixed-wing layout that allows vertical takeoff followed by transition to forward flight. This approach provides longer range and greater endurance than conventional rotary-wing drones. The aircraft’s design removes the need for prepared runways, enabling use from ships, temporary bases, or open ground.

The rotor-blown wing design directs rotor airflow over the wings during takeoff and hover, improving lift and control. During forward flight, lift is provided by the wings, reducing energy use and extending mission duration. The transition between modes is managed automatically through Sikorsky’s flight control system.

The first prototype, Nomad 50, began testing earlier in 2025 and demonstrated the aircraft’s vertical lift and transition capability. Sikorsky is now building the Nomad 100, a larger Group 3-class aircraft with an 18-foot wingspan. It uses a hybrid-electric propulsion system for lower noise and heat output, supporting operations that require reduced detection risk.

Larger Group 4 and Group 5 models are under development for heavier payloads and longer endurance. These versions will use conventional propulsion and include modular bays for sensors, communications equipment, and precision weapons. The aircraft will be adaptable for missions such as maritime surveillance, logistics support, and coordination with manned aircraft.

All Nomad variants are based on Sikorsky’s MATRIX™ autonomy system, which allows autonomous navigation, obstacle avoidance, and mission execution without GPS. The open software architecture is compatible with U.S. military command networks, enabling multi-vehicle coordination and integration into broader operational frameworks.

Future Nomad versions will support onboard data processing for mapping, object recognition, and cooperative flight with other drones. The modular design allows updates as new autonomy and AI technologies become available.

Sikorsky plans to display the Nomad 100 at the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) 2025 exposition. The company says the Nomad family provides a flexible option for vertical lift missions where conventional aircraft are limited by terrain or infrastructure.