WASHINGTON: Lockheed Martin senior leadership briefed members of the media about three growing air mobility business areas at this year’s Air Force Association Air and Space Conference and Technology Exposition. Speakers provided details on how well the C-5M Super Galaxy and C-130J Super Hercules are performing and the company offered insight into future airlift technology concepts.
“With the C-5M program now fully underway, and the global demand for the C-130J increasing, this is an exciting time to be in the airlifter business,” said Jim Grant, vice president of Business Development. “The fully modernized C-5M Super Galaxy will provide the U.S. Air Force with unmatched strategic lift. The C-5M has range and payload capability twice that of un-modernized C5s or any other U.S. airlifter. The C-5M will allow the Unites States to project its forces anywhere in the world efficiently and effectively.”
Each day, the C-130J Super Hercules is engaged in high-tempo operations in multiple combat theaters and is routinely deployed in support of both peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. The C-130J is a proven airlifter that has been selected by 10 nations. The production rate at Marietta is increasing to match the need for effective, efficient and proven airlift.
“The need for dependable airlift is a constant that will not change as we look to the future,” said Grant. “What will change is the technology included in future air mobility solutions and how it contributes to joint forces. We are investing in mobility research and development related to lightweight materials, low cost manufacturing, survivability technologies, powered lift and advanced aerodynamic concepts. Additionally, we are exploring short take-off and landing and heavy lift vertical take-off and landing concepts to potentially address joint air mobility needs.”
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.
