ORLANDO, Fla., June 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) will provide its Prepar3D ® visual simulation software to power the National Flight Academy's (NFA) immersive aviation experience as part of the academy's hands-on approach to teaching the principles of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) to students.

"We believe in the mission of the National Flight Academy, which couples STEM curriculum with aviation to inspire youth about technological careers," said Dale Bennett, president of Lockheed Martin's Global Training and Logistics business. "With the call from our nation's leadership – and that of our own corporation– to reinvigorate America's innovative spirit, we feel it is a great opportunity to support an organization with such a vital cause."

The NFA is designed to address the concerns of declining STEM skills and standards in our country by providing immersive high-tech adventures that combine classroom math and science fundamentals with hands-on aviation experiences. Prepar3D ® is visual simulation software that brings immersive game-based technology to training, experiential learning and decision and performance support for non-government, government and commercial organizations.

For NFA, Lockheed Martin will donate copies of Prepar3D ®, upgradable as new product versions are launched. In addition to providing immersive software to facilitate the students' learning, Lockheed Martin has donated more than $2 million to the NFA.

"The National Flight Academy's mission is to educate youth on the fundamentals of STEM, and to do that it is critical we provide valuable learning experiences," said Vice Admiral Gerald Hoewing, president of the National Flight Academy. "This project can't happen without companies like Lockheed Martin."

Prepar3D ® is based on the Microsoft ESP ™ Flight Simulator product line and is compatible with add-on software created for ESP ™. On the web site, www.prepar3d.com, users can get the software as well as download a software development kit to create add-ons such as aircraft, instruments, boats, buildings and other environmental features.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 126,000 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 2010 sales from continuing operations were $45.8 billion.

For additional information, visit our web site: www.lockheedmartin.com

SOURCE Lockheed Martin