Key Stats
Lockheed Martin operates as a global security and aerospace company. The corporation leads the defense industry with advanced military aircraft, missiles, space systems, and technology solutions. Its business spans four main segments that serve government and commercial customers worldwide.
The company delivers cutting-edge systems for defense, space exploration, and security applications. From fighter jets to satellite communications, its products support critical missions for military forces and government agencies. Operations extend across more than 400 locations globally.
Formed through strategic mergers, Lockheed Martin continues to push boundaries in aerospace technology. The corporation invests heavily in research and development to maintain its competitive edge. Its programs include the F-35 fighter, missile defense systems, and space exploration platforms.
Lockheed Martin History
Lockheed Martin Co-founders
Lockheed Martin Competitors
The aerospace and defense industry features intense competition from established giants and emerging players. Companies compete for government contracts, commercial business, and technological leadership across multiple domains.
| Company | Primary Focus | Headquarters |
|---|---|---|
| Boeing | Military aircraft, space systems, defense | Chicago, Illinois |
| Northrop Grumman | Stealth technology, autonomous systems, space | Falls Church, Virginia |
| Raytheon Technologies | Missiles, defense systems, aerospace | Waltham, Massachusetts |
| General Dynamics | Shipbuilding, combat vehicles, aerospace | Reston, Virginia |
| BAE Systems | Defense electronics, naval systems | London, United Kingdom |
| Airbus Defence and Space | Military aircraft, space systems | Toulouse, France |
| L3Harris Technologies | Communications, sensors, electronics | Melbourne, Florida |
| Leonardo | Helicopters, defense electronics | Rome, Italy |
| Thales Group | Aerospace, defense, security | Paris, France |
| Saab | Fighter aircraft, submarines, defense systems | Stockholm, Sweden |
Lockheed Martin Revenue
The company’s revenue stream reflects strong demand for defense systems and aerospace technologies. Sales growth of 5% in 2024 demonstrated continued market strength and program execution.
Lockheed Martin Market Cap
Market capitalization fluctuates based on stock performance and investor sentiment. The company maintains its position as one of the largest publicly traded defense contractors.
Lockheed Martin Acquisitions
Strategic acquisitions have shaped the company’s portfolio and capabilities over three decades. The most significant deal occurred in 1996 when Lockheed Martin acquired Loral Corporation’s defense electronics and system integration businesses for $9.1 billion. This transaction brought advanced capabilities in tactical systems, communications, and space technologies. Loral had established itself as a leader in defense electronics since its founding in 1948.
The Sikorsky Aircraft acquisition in 2015 marked another major expansion. Lockheed Martin paid $9 billion to acquire the helicopter manufacturer from United Technologies Corporation. Sikorsky brought iconic platforms including the Black Hawk and Seahawk helicopters. The acquisition added rotary-wing capabilities and positioned the company in the growing helicopter market with a $16 billion backlog at the time of purchase.
Smaller acquisitions targeted specific capabilities and technologies. In 2001, the company acquired OAO Corporation to expand IT services. The purchase of QTC Holdings in 2011 and Systems Made Simple in 2014 built healthcare IT capabilities. Industrial Defender was acquired in 2014 to strengthen cybersecurity offerings. The company also purchased Beontra AG in 2014 to expand airport information technology solutions.
A proposed $4.4 billion acquisition of Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings fell through in 2022. The Federal Trade Commission blocked the deal over competition concerns. This represented a rare regulatory rejection for the company. Throughout its history, Lockheed Martin has used acquisitions to fill capability gaps and strengthen market position across defense and aerospace sectors.
FAQs
When was Lockheed Martin founded?
Lockheed Martin was formed in March 1995 through the merger of Lockheed Corporation and Martin Marietta Corporation. The $10 billion merger created the world’s largest defense contractor at that time.
What does Lockheed Martin manufacture?
The company manufactures military aircraft like the F-35 and F-16, helicopters including the Black Hawk, missiles, space systems, satellites, and advanced defense technologies for air, land, sea, and space operations.
Who are Lockheed Martin’s main customers?
The U.S. Government accounts for 73% of revenue, primarily through Department of Defense contracts. International governments, NASA, and commercial customers make up the remaining sales.
Where is Lockheed Martin headquartered?
The company maintains its headquarters in Bethesda, Maryland, in the Washington Metropolitan Area. Operations span more than 400 locations worldwide with facilities across the United States and internationally.
What is Lockheed Martin’s largest program?
The F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter represents the company’s largest program. This fifth-generation stealth fighter serves multiple branches of the U.S. military and international partners globally.