Senators Norm Coleman and Mark Dayton will host a Defense Forum Monday morning with several members from Minnesota's defense industry at the Eagan headquarters of Lockheed Martin. The purpose of the forum will be to look at ways to retain the high paying jobs created by this industry in Minnesota by fostering a climate that keeps Minnesota's defense industry competitive in today's global economy.

The high-tech industry in Minnesota has been recognized as a global leader in technology which has provided great economic benefits to Minnesota's vital economy. These companies are key job providers in Minnesota offering wages 37% higher than the state average. Participants will look for ways to retain and create new high-technology and defense related jobs in Minnesota.

Taking part in the discussion will be representatives from United Defense, Alliant Tech Systems, Honeywell, General Dynamics, Lockheed Martin, DHY, Inc., Caswell International, and Richlind Metals.

Following the closed roundtable discussion, Dayton and Coleman will tour the facility and greet the employees. All media are invited to join the Senators on the tour and during the meet and greet immediately following. They will also be available for questions at this time regarding their morning discussion on defense.

  WHEN:    Monday, August 4, 2003
           9:00 a.m. -- 10:15 a.m. -- Roundtable
           ***CLOSED TO PRESS***

           10:15 a.m. -- 11:00 a.m. -- Tour and meet and greet
           ***OPEN TO PRESS***

  WHERE:   Lockheed Martin
           3333 Pilot Knob Road
           Eagan, MN

SOURCE: Lockheed Martin