Hales-Dutton, Bruce (Hrsg.) Lockheed Martin

Reaching for the Stars

Lockheed Martin is one of the world's largest defence companies. It employs 110,000 people in 54 countries, has 375 locations worldwide and generated revenue of nearly $60 billion in 2020, a sum that exceeds the gross domestic product of some smaller European countries. The company is active in a wide range of areas, from building the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and developing advanced weapon systems to participating in space missions. Meanwhile, its secretive Skunk Works division is working on new and even more lethal weapons, but also on technologies that could bring major benefits to the world by reducing energy costs and improving the availability of clean water. Lockheed Martin was formed in March 1995 through a merger of equals between Lockheed and Martin Marietta, two companies whose roots date back to the early days of aviation. Since then, the group has grown to include some of the most famous names in aviation history, which, according to Marillyn A. Hewson, outgoing chair, president and chief executive officer, have developed some of the most innovative technologies of the 20th century. In the company's 2020 annual report, Hewson stated: As we celebrate our 25th anniversary as a company, I am proud to report that Lockheed Martin has never been stronger. In the decades ahead, we will continue the rich heritage of our predecessor companies by shaping the future of aerospace and defence worldwide. Describing all these activities would go beyond the scope of this publication. Instead, here is an insight into Lockheed Martin's global activities.