Lockheed Martin Corporation | Lockheed Martin

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Successful ground test of new General Dynamics solid rocket motor marks another step in accelerating production.

CAMDEN, Ark., Nov. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has announced significant advancements in the accelerated production of GMLRS® rockets, an essential weapon system for the U.S. Army and its allies.

Lockheed Martin reaches production milestone after delivering its 100,000th GMLRS rocket.

Lockheed Martin has successfully delivered its 100,000th GMLRS rocket and is now achieving a production rate of nearly 14,000 rockets per year—this impressive output surpasses initial scheduling forecasts as demand for reliable, combat-ready systems escalates.

In addition, Lockheed Martin has made headway in reinforcing America’s defense industrial base. Together with General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (GDOTS), the first test of a new solid rocket motor designed for GMLRS has been completed. With further testing planned and motor qualification set for 2027, this development will provide a third domestic source for a vital component, bolstering supply chain resilience as production accelerates.

The achievements were highlighted at a ceremony in Camden, Arkansas, emphasizing ongoing investments in U.S. military preparedness, American manufacturing, and the defense infrastructure necessary to maintain national strength.

WHY IT MATTERS

GMLRS is a precision strike rocket that has demonstrated its effectiveness in combat, delivering low-cost, low-risk munitions that minimize collateral damage while providing military personnel with vital capabilities. GMLRS rockets can be deployed swiftly from M270 and HIMARS launch systems.

EXPERT PERSPECTIVES

“Today’s production milestones underscore Lockheed Martin’s commitment to rapid delivery, investment in our supply chain, and ensuring American forces have the necessary resources, preemptively, for global defense,” stated Gaylia Campbell, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin Tactical Missiles. “Our team is diligently working alongside the Department of War and industry partners like GDOTS to fulfill this urgent demand.”

“We are proud to contribute to the GMLRS program and this production milestone through our delivery of essential components, including warheads, rocket motor cases, and launch pod containers,” remarked Chris Haynes, senior vice president and general manager at GDOTS. “The recent solid rocket motor test signifies a crucial step forward in our collaboration with Lockheed Martin to enhance solid rocket motor production capacity. Our combined efforts reflect a commitment to increasing domestic manufacturing capabilities and ensuring that U.S. and allied forces are equipped with the essential technologies.”

THE BIG PICTURE

The GMLRS program relies on over 200 suppliers across 35 states, including more than 50 classified as small businesses.
Over 200 personnel are engaged in GMLRS production in Camden, where the facility is hiring 50% more staff to support increased output across multiple munitions programs, including PAC-3 MSE and PrSM.
Lockheed Martin continues to invest in workforce training and recruitment from local educational institutions, providing funds to support an Industrial Automation and Robotics Lab at the new Defense Manufacturing Center of Excellence at SAU Tech. Additionally, a high school hiring initiative is now in its fourth year, resulting in a record-breaking number of 40+ graduates securing full-time positions in support of munitions production expansion.

About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a premier global defense technology corporation committed to advancing innovation and scientific exploration. With its all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security^® vision, Lockheed Martin is dedicated to delivering transformative technologies that ensure operational superiority for those it serves. For more information, visit LockheedMartin.com.

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