MOORESTOWN, N.J., Oct. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) successfully identified and tracked a target using its Multi-Mission Signal Processor for the U.S. Navy's Aegis system. This is the third test in a series of scheduled exercises that began earlier this year.

The new processor is scalable and easily upgradeable, combining next-generation Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) and anti-air warfare capabilities in an open architecture format for the U.S. Navy.

The augmented Aegis system detected air tracks at the Navy's land-based test facility, the Vice Admiral James H. Doyle Combat Systems Engineering Development site in Moorestown, N.J.

"These tests prove that the Aegis system will allow for simultaneous ballistic missile defense and anti-air warfare capabilities for the Navy," said Allan Croly, director, naval radar programs for Lockheed Martin. "This advancement, when fielded as part of the Aegis modernization effort, provides advanced integrated air and missile defense capabilities to the Navy."

The first two demonstrations focused on the anti-air warfare and ballistic missile defense capabilities. This test tracked a target with a higher resolution capability enabling performance against more complex threats.

As part of the Aegis modernization program, the Multi-Mission Signal Processor is scheduled for installation on a number of  guided missile destroyers and cruisers currently equipped with the Aegis Weapon System, starting in 2012.

The Aegis BMD element of the nation's ballistic missile defense system provides the capability to use hit-to-kill technology to destroy short- and medium-range ballistic missiles. Additionally, Aegis BMD-equipped ships provide surveillance and tracking of intercontinental ballistic missiles and work with other elements of the nation's missile-defense systems to provide advance warning for the defense of the nation, deployed U.S. forces and allies.

The 93 Aegis-equipped ships currently in service around the globe have more than 1,200 years of at-sea operational experience and have launched more than 3,800 missiles in tests and real-world operations.  In addition to the United States, Aegis is the maritime weapon system of choice for Australia, Japan, Norway, the Republic of Korea and Spain.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 136,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation's 2009 sales from continuing operations were $44.5 billion.

For additional information on Lockheed Martin Corporation, visit: http://www.lockheedmartin.com

SOURCE Lockheed Martin