Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Co. announced that they are partnering to pursue the US Missile Defense Agency's Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) Development and Sustainment Contract. Together, Lockheed Martin and Raytheon develop, produce and sustain interceptor weapon systems for missile defense. As strategic partners for GMD Development and Sustainment, the companies will apply their proven experience to ensure the reliability and readiness of the GMD element of the Ballistic Missile Defense System, which defends our nation, deployed military forces, and friends and allies against a limited attack by intermediate- and long-range ballistic missiles.
"Lockheed Martin and Raytheon are continuing a successful track record of delivering on key missile defense programs," said Mathew J. Joyce, GMD Vice President and Program Manager, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Co. "Lockheed Martin and Raytheon systems combined have achieved more than 50 intercepts in combat and testing—more than any other team." These systems include Terminal High Altitude Area Defense, Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense including Standard Missile-3, Patriot and Patriot Advanced Capability-3, and GMD Exoatmospheric Kill Vehicle.