BAE Systems unveils new FalconWorks research facility

BAE Systems has launched a new division within its Warton, UK-based Air Sector called FalconWorks™. It is a new centre for advanced and agile research and development designed to deliver a range of cutting-edge combat air capabilities to the UK and its allies.

FalconWorks will focus on generating ideas, innovation and collaboration – working with new and existing partners, academia, research organisations, SMEs and national governments to deliver rapid concepting of new products and services needed by air force customers to maintain their edge.

Specialists at FalconWorks will assess emerging trends and deliver solutions with speed and efficiency, increasing the use of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum sensing and robotics. They will also collaborate with partners in areas such as autonomy, synthetic environments and electrical powered air systems.

“The creation of FalconWorks is a reflection of the changing environment and our goal to ensure innovative technology development is at the core of everything we do,” says Dave Holmes, managing Director of FalconWorks. “This new division builds on our established expertise in world-leading combat air programmes such as Typhoon, F-35 and Tempest to unlock opportunities to expand our portfolio and deliver the breakthrough technologies which keep our customers ahead.”

BAE Systems has a long history of working with academic institutions and industry to harness knowledge in the defence sector. In the past three years, the Company has invested £800 million ($1.6 billion) of its own money in research and development.

FalconWorks™ will deliver a long term customer-centric approach to R&D investments, says the company. Horizon-scanning to identify new capabilities and innovation initiatives that focus on what comes after next and also provide the capabilities our customers need today to maintain competitive advantage