Lockheed Martin and BAE SYSTEMS have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore partnership opportunities on missile defense programs in the United States, the United Kingdom and around the world. The companies will identify areas in which they have compatible capabilities that can be collaboratively applied to benefit current and future customers. The agreement also envisions joint investments in key technologies that can significantly enhance the effectiveness of current and emerging missile defense programs.

Initial areas of discussion will focus on sea-based systems; systems integration; Command and Control, Battle Management and Communications (C2BMC); early warning and sensor networking; interceptor concepts and systems; and targets and countermeasures.

"Lockheed Martin and BAE SYSTEMS each have extensive experience and capabilities in missile defense. When combined, these strengths will generate added value for our customers in the U.S., the U.K. and in other nations," said Dave Kier, Lockheed Martin vice president and managing director of missile defense programs. "By gaining a better understanding of each company's capabilities we can collaborate to develop unique solutions and opportunities."

"BAE SYSTEMS and Lockheed Martin are already co-operating in the US Missile Defense program," said David Bond, missile defense director, Future Systems, BAE SYSTEMS. "The signing of this agreement demonstrates our intention to broaden our collaboration in missile defense as the program moves towards an International dimension."

Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems are both members of Team Janus, an international team studying the feasibility of a multi-national, fully integration missile defense solution for NATO.

Lockheed Martin is a world leader in systems integration and the development of air and missile defense systems and technologies, including the first operational hit-to-kill missile defense system. It also has considerable experience in missile design and production, infrared seekers, command and control, battle management and communications, precision pointing and tracking optics, as well as radar and signal processing. The company makes significant contributions to all major U.S. missile defense systems and participates in several global missile defense partnerships.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 125,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services.

BAE SYSTEMS is an international company engaged in the development, delivery and support of advanced defence and aerospace systems in the air, on land, at sea and in space. The company designs, manufactures and supports military aircraft, surface ships, radar, avionics, communications, electronics and guided weapon systems. It is a pioneer in technology with a heritage stretching back hundreds of years. It is at the forefront of innovation, working to develop the next generation of intelligent defence systems.

BAE SYSTEMS has major operations across five continents and customers in some 130 countries. The company has 100,000 people and generates annual sales of approximately 12 billion pounds Sterling through its wholly-owned and joint venture operations.

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www.lockheedmartin.com

SOURCE: Lockheed Martin Corp.; BAE SYSTEMS