On April 15th, the selection of Lockheed Martin by the United States Missile Defense Agency (MDA) to manufacture and deliver the Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) was confirmed. This is expected to become the new ballistic missile defense capability for the U.S. Armed Forces.
Sarah Hiza, Vice President and General Manager of Strategic and Missile Defense at Lockheed Martin, stated: “Lockheed Martin is proud to partner with the MDA on a revolutionary interceptor to enhance our nation’s security. We are committed to delivering reliable interceptors that will seamlessly integrate with the GMD system and can rapidly evolve with the threat (…) We are ready to support our customers over the coming decades with a solution capable of protecting the nation from current and future threats.”
Currently, the NGI is undergoing technological development, awaiting the production development phase expected to begin in May. The initial purchase of interceptors is estimated at 20 units to be deployed in Alaska, according to Heath Collins, the Missile Defense Agency’s lead.
The contract had been awarded in 2021 to both Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman separately to commence initial system designs, with Lockheed Martin chosen to deliver the first interceptor in 2027. If progress continues to subsequent stages, production will take place in Alabama, specifically at the Huntsville and Courtland facilities.
The announcement comes amidst Iran’s attack on Israel using drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, with the latter being the primary target for interception by the NGI. This reinforces Lockheed Martin’s image following the announcement of an 18% reduction in orders for the F-35 Lightning II fighter jet for the upcoming year, reflected in the 0.6% increase in the company’s stock value.
Image Credits: Lockheed Martin
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