Lockheed Martin Corporation | Lockheed Martin
Partnership underscores American manufacturing expertise
DALLAS, Sept. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has successfully delivered the first mission-critical components for the PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptor missile, produced by GM Defense, following the signing of a formal contract less than a month prior.
This rapid delivery of components, which typically requires months to years to manufacture, illustrates the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between defense and commercial sectors. Such partnerships are crucial for accelerating production schedules, enhancing the U.S. defense industrial base, and contributing to the Arsenal of Freedom.
EXPERT PERSPECTIVE
Tim Cahill, President of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, stated, “This extraordinary 22-day turnaround underscores Lockheed Martin’s relentless focus on execution – delivering for our troops faster, with greater capacity. Our partnership with GM Defense is a concrete example of how we’re merging world-class commercial manufacturing with defense supply chain and production practices, rapidly translating that into battlefield readiness for the United States.”
Stephen duMont, President and CEO of GM Defense, added, “We’re proud to support the production of this country’s critical defense capabilities. Our partnership with Lockheed Martin leverages GM’s precision-fabrication expertise and ability to manufacture with quality at scale. We look forward to putting these strengths to work in support of our nation’s security and the people who protect it.”
WHY IT MATTERS
Lockheed Martin is operating with urgency to provide the Arsenal of Freedom, working closely with Department of War leadership to utilize commercial-style contracts for the PAC-3 MSE, THAAD, and Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) systems. The company is committed to investing $8-9 billion to expand munitions production, which includes new facilities, upgrades, and the creation of thousands of jobs at over 20 locations across the country. Production and warehousing space for munitions will see a nearly 50% increase following planned expansions.
ADDITIONAL CONTEXT
- 22-Day Cycle: Lockheed Martin and GM Defense entered into a formal agreement on August 6, and the first batch of PAC-3 MSE housing components was delivered on August 28.
- Commercial-Grade Precision: GM Defense utilized advanced casting and machining techniques to meet stringent defense specifications.
- Long-Term Partnership: Both companies aim to expand this collaboration, fostering commercial practices across munitions programs and enhancing capabilities for future defense systems to safeguard America and its allies.
About Lockheed Martin
Lockheed Martin is a global leader in defense technology, committed to advancing innovation and scientific discovery. Their all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security® vision drive the delivery of transformative technologies, ensuring that those they serve maintain a competitive edge. More information can be found at Lockheedmartin.com.
Source: Lockheed Martin (2026-09-17 13:25:00)
