In today’s rapidly evolving global security landscape, the need for advanced deterrent solutions and strong allied partnerships has become more critical than ever. As potential threats loom, the importance of delivering 21st Century Security capabilities for the Indo-Pacific cannot be overstated. Lockheed Martin is committed to strengthening ties with Australia and Indo-Pacific allies to support evolving next-generation defense solutions for the unique challenges of this vital region.

“Our efforts to support the growth of Australia’s defense industry, include the transfer of technology, creation of local jobs and investment in local business demonstrate our commitment to international collaboration,” said Ken Kota, Vice President, Strategic Capabilities Office for Lockheed Martin.

Lockheed Martin’s partnership with Australia extends beyond advanced capabilities to also include local manufacturing and fostering a robust defense industrial base in the country.

Lockheed Martin is also working closely with the Australian Defence Force to enhance its capabilities through the integration of advanced systems and technologies.

In January 2024, Lockheed Martin Australia was awarded a AUD$37.4M contract to commence manufacturing missiles in Australia. Under this Guided Weapons Production Capability (GWPC) Risk Reduction Activity contract, Lockheed Martin Australia will fit out an interim guided weapons production facility in Australia.

A team of Lockheed Martin Australia engineers are visiting production facilities in the United States. During their visit, they’re receiving specialized training to support beginning the co-assembly of guided weapons in Australia, learning best practices from GMLRS specialists who have been building the rocket for more than 40 years.

Fast-moving threats require agile deterrence with compatible platforms networked into an ecosystem designed for a new standard of connected protection.

Lockheed Martin's proven capabilities for Australia include the HIMARS and the Javelin missile system. These systems have been successfully deployed in the Indo-Pacific, demonstrating their effectiveness in providing long-range precision fires and deterring potential adversaries.

“Connected current and next-generation technologies are critical to deter rapidly evolving threats across all domains – land, air, sea, space and cyber,” said Kota. “Our systems are multi-domain operations enablers that create an interoperable and resilient ‘network of platforms’ that provide armed forces with a complete picture of the battlespace and empower users to make smarter and faster decisions.”

Examples include joint military readiness exercises like Valiant Shield 24 and Talisman Sabre 23, a biennial combined military training activity with the Australian Defence Force and U.S. military. Recent demonstrations showcased PrSM against a maritime target and HIMARS firing a long-range ATACMS missile. These collaborative exercises highlight the importance of multi-domain capabilities and collaboration between partners nations in deterrent capacities.

Another example is the Joint-Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) expeditionary strike training mission. In June 2024, the U.S. Marine Corps UH-1Y Huey and AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter pilots fired a JAGM during an expeditionary (EXPO) strike. This EXPO strike was the first time that JAGM was launched from an AH-1Z in the Indo-Pacific region, which is significant because JAGM is a critical capability that can engage with pin-point precision fast-moving adversary maritime targets.

By conducting joint exercises, Lockheed Martin is supporting its regional allies by enhancing the interoperability of systems and strengthening strategic partnerships.

To stay ahead of emerging threats, Lockheed Martin is continuously evolving its next-generation defense solutions.

Recent advancements include the successful test of the tri-mode seeker for the Joint Air-to-Ground Missile-Medium Range (JAGM-MR) in the United States and the first-ever sinking exercise (SINKEX) using the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) against a moving maritime target. PrSM continues to advance with work to optimize future variants with enhanced capabilities like range, guided submunitions and the ability to neutralize maritime targets – providing even greater flexibility to commanders.

Lockheed Martin has been working on a range of next-generation defense projects in Australia, including the development of advanced unmanned aerial systems and the integration of cutting-edge cyber security solutions. These innovations will further enhance the Indo-Pacific allies' ability to deter and defend against potential threats.

Moreover, Lockheed Martin's commitment to fostering a robust defense industrial base in Australia extends to research and development, with the company investing in local research initiatives and working closely with Australian universities to develop innovative solutions to emerging security challenges. This investment in research and development not only helps to strengthen Australia's defense capabilities but also contributes to the growth of the nation's science and technology sector.

As the U.S. military and allies prioritize expanding their arsenal of reliable systems to deter and defend against threats, Lockheed Martin remains committed to delivering advanced security solutions to support the unique challenges of the Indo-Pacific region, with a particular focus on strengthening partnerships with Australia.

By partnering to deliver country-specific solutions, these alliances can support all-domain deterrence and contribute to a safer and more secure future for the Indo-Pacific and the world.