The US Army has awarded Lockheed Martin a $756m contract to boost its Long Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) capabilities.
The deal aims to fortify the nation's hypersonic strike capabilities by providing additional batteries, equipment, and logistical support.
The LRHW system is known for its ultrafast, manoeuvrable missiles that launch from ground mobile platforms. These advanced hypersonic missiles, part of the US Navy-managed Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) programme, are designed to deliver rapid and precise strikes, enhancing the Army's offensive and defensive operations.
Steve Layne, vice president of Hypersonic Strike Weapon Systems at Lockheed Martin, emphasised the importance of this contract: "With this contract, we will support the US Army to sustain the Long Range Hypersonic Weapon System currently in the hands of US soldiers, produce additional batteries for future fielding, and support flight testing."
This contract builds on Lockheed Martin's previous achievements, including delivering the first LRHW battery, nicknamed Dark Eagle, to the US Army in 2021.
Lockheed Martin's involvement in hypersonic technology spans over six decades, aligning with the company's 21st Century Security vision.
Enhancing the LRHW system is a step in maintaining the US military's competitive edge as global threats evolve.
Lockheed Martin reported net earnings of $1.54bn in Q1 FY24, an 8.5% decrease from $1.68bn in Q1 FY23, despite sales growth in multiple segments, including a 25% rise in Missiles and Fire Control. Recently, Lockheed Martin also secured a $451m contract to upgrade M270 multiple launch rocket systems for the US Army.
