The U.S. Navy has awarded Lockheed Martin a $383 million contract modification to continue the development of the Trident II Strategic Weapons System (SWS) D5 missile, ensuring the nation’s sea-based deterrence remains effective. This funding will support the design and development of the Trident II D5 Life Extension 2 (D5LE2), an upgraded missile that will be deployed on the U.S. Navy’s COLUMBIA-class ballistic missile submarines. The goal is to maintain the credibility of the system through 2084.
Jerry Mamrol, Lockheed Martin’s Vice President of Fleet Ballistic Missiles, stated, “The second life extension of the Trident D5 missile ensures the United States and the United Kingdom, through the Polaris Sales Agreement, can continue to deter evolving threats effectively. We are proud to strengthen our ongoing partnership with the U.S. Navy in advancing deterrence for the future.”
The Trident II D5 missile, developed and continually upgraded by Lockheed Martin, is the world’s most advanced ballistic missile, currently deployed on U.S. OHIO-class and U.K. VANGUARD-class submarines. Lockheed Martin is marking its 70th year supporting the Navy with its Fleet Ballistic Missiles (FBM) program, which has been integral to the U.S. and allied strategic deterrence capabilities.
The FBM program is key to national and allied security, focusing on innovation with cutting-edge digital technology, state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to excellence. Lockheed Martin is breaking ground on a 225,000 square-foot facility in Titusville, Florida, to manufacture components for the D5LE2 missile. This expansion will create approximately 300 skilled jobs in Florida’s Space Coast region. The facility is expected to begin operations in 2027 and will support the Navy’s production requirements for the next six decades.
Florida Secretary of Commerce, J. Alex Kelly, commented, “Florida continues to make strategic investments in our aerospace, aviation, military, and defense sectors. This new facility will contribute to Florida’s economic success by providing high-skill, high-wage jobs for our workforce.”
Lockheed Martin is a global leader in aerospace, defense, and security, renowned for its cutting-edge innovations and advanced technologies. Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, the company specializes in designing and manufacturing next-generation solutions, including fighter aircraft, missiles, space systems, and cybersecurity technologies.
Notable products such as the F-35 Lightning II, the Aegis Combat System, and Orion spacecraft have established Lockheed Martin as a trusted partner for governments and organizations worldwide. With a commitment to sustainability, research, and workforce development, Lockheed Martin continues to drive advancements in defense, exploration, and technological innovation, addressing some of the world’s most complex challenges.
