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Lockheed Martin Conducts Successful Production Verification Test of Guided MLRS Rockets

DALLAS, TX, March 16th, 2005 -- Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] recently conducted a successful three-rocket ripple production verification test of the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rocket at White Sands Missile Range, NM.

The three GMLRS rockets were fired from an MLRS M270A1 launcher, which features an Improved Launcher Mechanical System (ILMS) and an Improved Fire Control System (IFCS). The rockets were fired at ambient temperature conditions at a medium-range target point. Preliminary data indicate all test objectives were achieved.

Including this most recent success, 37 separate GMLRS flight tests have been conducted involving 110 rockets, proving the GMLRS rocket as an effective and powerful addition to the MLRS family of munitions.

“Getting GMLRS rockets into the hands of our warfighter as soon as possible is very high on our priority list,” said Ron Abbott, vice president - Tactical Missiles for Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “Lockheed Martin’s support for our warfighters is unwavering, and we are eager to add the GMLRS munition as yet another solution available to the battlefield commander.”

GMLRS is an all-weather, precision-guided rocket that provides increased accuracy, thus reducing the number of rockets necessary to defeat current targets by 80 percent and reducing collateral damage. The GMLRS rocket provides increased precision and maneuverability, and can be fired from the MLRS M270 and M270A1 launchers and the HIMARS launcher.

GMLRS is a Future Force system with a range of more than 70 kilometers. The system incorporates a 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.

The GMLRS rocket program is an international cooperative program between the U.S., U.K., Italy, France and Germany.

Lockheed Martin has received three contracts, totaling more than $290 million, to produce 2,568 GMLRS rockets in the Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) program through the year 2006. GMLRS production is expected to extend well beyond the year 2020.

The GMLRS program successfully completed operationally testing in December 2004. More than 24 GMLRS rockets were fired from a MLRS M270A1 and HIMARS launchers over a two-month time period.

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