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Lockheed Martin Successfully Tests Expeditionary Fire Support System at 29 Palms

DALLAS, TX, August 19th, 2003 -- Lockheed Martin [NYSE:LMT] successfully test fired the company's Expeditionary Fire Support System (EFSS) engineering prototype system at 29 Palms, Calif., late last week. Using internal research and development funds, Lockheed Martin designed and built an engineering prototype solution for the Marine Corps EFSS requirement in four months.

"The self-propelled 120mm mortar system fired several rounds from various elevations and azimuths, including over the cab," said Reggie Grant, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control's director - Naval Tactical Missiles. "We feel very strongly about our ability to meet the requirements of the EFSS program and bring value to U.S. Marines in their defining moments."

The U.S. Marine Corps has stated a requirement for a highly mobile fire support system to execute Ship To Objective Maneuver (STOM). A Request For Proposals is expected later this year, followed by contract award in the first half of calendar year 2004.

"This test, using our engineering prototype, will help us study the stresses placed on a light vehicle during firing. We believe this is an excellent opportunity to significantly increase the Marine Corps' capability to execute STOM," Grant added.

The Lockheed Martin EFSS concept integrates the individual capabilities of a Supacat High Mobility Transport (HMT) vehicle, the Soltam 120mm recoil mortar system, and a weapon control system and Enhanced Tactical Computer from EFW. Fully integrating and embedding the crew positions, weapon and fire control systems with the vehicle provides tactically maneuverable fire support and rotary wing or tiltrotor transportability. This transformational configuration will enable the Marines to fire 120mm mortars mounted on their weapons carrier with "effects of fire" comparable to 155mm artillery.

Lockheed Martin is leveraging its extensive fire support experience on the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) for the EFSS competition. In April, Lockheed Martin received a contract to begin Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) of HIMARS for the U.S. Army and Marine Corps. During LRIP the Army plans to buy 89 HIMARS launchers and the Marines will buy four launchers. Total joint procurement of the system is expected to be more than 900 launchers.

"Lockheed Martin is successfully meeting the indirect fire needs of the U.S. Army and the Marine Corps with HIMARS. We believe our solution for EFSS will complement that system and meet all of the programs requirements, including being transportable on both the CH-53 and the V-22," said Grant.

Craig Vanbebber, (972) 603-1615; craig.vanbebber@lmco.com