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Lockheed Martin Conducts Successful GMLRS Test Firings At White Sands Missile Range

First Time GMLRS Has Been Fired from MLRS M270A1 Launcher

Dallas, TX, August 28th, 2003 -- Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] recently conducted a successful test of its transformational Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) at White Sands Missile Range, NM. Two three-round ripples (six total rounds) of GMLRS rockets were fired from an MLRS M270A1 launcher, marking the first time the Guided rocket has been fired from this launcher.

The M270A1 launcher used in this test was equipped with an Improved Weapons Interface Unit (IWIU), which enables the launcher to discretely send mission critical data to the GMLRS rockets. All 225 U.S. MLRS M270A1 launchers and production High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers will be equipped with an IWIU, enabling them to fire GMLRS and other future MLRS munitions.

"GMLRS represents the first successful step in a series of planned MRLS enhancements that will improve the effectiveness and survivability of our warfighter," said Ron Abbott, vice president - Tactical Missiles for Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "Guided MLRS rockets could be one of the most important tools on the battlefield in our customers' defining moments."

GMLRS is an all-weather, precision-guided rocket that provides increased accuracy, thus reducing the number of rockets necessary to defeat current targets by as much as 80 percent. The GMLRS rocket, a key component of the Objective Force because of its increased range and enhanced precision, finished a 48-month System Development and Demonstration phase in December 2002 after successfully completing Production Qualification flight testing. The U.S. Army is planning to produce more than 100,000 GMLRS rockets.

GMLRS has a range of more than 70 kilometers. The system incorporates a Global Positioning System (GPS)-aided inertial guidance package integrated on a product-improved rocket body. Small canards on the guided rocket nose provide basic maneuverability and enhance the accuracy of the system.

Contact:
Craig Vanbebber, 972-603-1615
e-mail craig.vanbebber@lmco.com