
Lockheed Martin Corporation | Lockheed Martin
TROY, Ala., Oct. 27, 2026 — Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has secured a $694 million contract from the U.S. Air Force for the production of the Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW). This advanced weapon system introduces sustainable and maneuverable hypersonic capabilities to the U.S. military and is the result of extensive collaboration between Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Air Force over recent years.
THE BIG PICTURE
Integrated with the B-52, the ARRW provides the U.S. Air Force with hypersonic strike capabilities that can be deployed rapidly. Its readiness for production makes it a crucial military asset, enhancing capabilities to address emerging threats.
Earlier today, Lockheed Martin commenced expansion efforts at Building P-20 in Troy, Alabama, which will add 47,000 square feet of space dedicated to ARRW production. This expansion is set to triple the facility’s production area and create new job opportunities over the next four years, complementing the nearly 4,000 Lockheed Martin employees already based in Alabama. The facility will leverage advanced manufacturing, robotics, and digital technologies to train the workforce for ARRW production.
WHY IT MATTERS
- The ARRW is designed to operate at speeds exceeding Mach 5, allowing it to rapidly engage targets from considerable distances.
- Built to withstand extreme conditions, the ARRW utilizes advanced materials to manage high temperatures and incorporates a technology suite to ensure precision and effectiveness against various defense systems.
- Lockheed Martin has proactively funded the development, materials, and equipment for ARRW production, demonstrating a solid commitment to delivering this vital capability to the U.S. Air Force promptly and at scale.
EXPERT PERSPECTIVE
“The ARRW production contract award highlights Lockheed Martin’s capacity to develop and initiate production of advanced systems with remarkable speed and efficiency,” stated Tim Cahill, president of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “ARRW enhances our weapon systems lineup and introduces a critical, high-precision hypersonic capability that significantly boosts the U.S. Air Force’s strategic advantages across multiple operational domains.”
ADDITIONAL CONTEXT
- Lockheed Martin’s $8-9 billion investment through 2030 aims to meet increasing munitions demands, with $67 million directed toward the ARRW production facility expansion and necessary equipment, even before the federal funding.
- The company continues to advance its research and development efforts, ensuring ongoing support and rapid delivery for the U.S. Air Force’s air-launched hypersonic strike objectives.
- With over 60 years of expertise in hypersonic technology, Lockheed Martin stands at the forefront of hypersonic strike capabilities, delivering innovative solutions aligned with the U.S. National Defense Strategy and supporting the security needs of allied nations.
About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology enterprise focused on advancing innovation and scientific exploration. Committed to delivering transformative technologies for all-domain mission solutions and ensuring readiness, more information can be found at Lockheedmartin.com.
Source: Lockheed Martin (2026-10-27 19:33:00)






