Lockheed

Lockheed commonly refers to Lockheed Martin, a major American aerospace, defense, and security company. The name traces to the Lockheed Corporation, a predecessor firm formed by Allan and Malcolm Loughead in the early 20th century in California. The brothers founded the Loughead Aircraft Manufacturing Company in 1912; to avoid mispronunciation of their surname, the name was later changed to Lockheed. In the 1920s and 1930s Lockheed grew into a leading aircraft producer, building both civilian and military airplanes such as the Vega and the P-38 Lightning. The company gained prominence during World War II and the Cold War for its innovative programs, including high-profile reconnaissance aircraft like the U-2 and the SR-71 Blackbird developed by the Skunk Works division.

In 1995 Lockheed Corporation merged with Martin Marietta to form Lockheed Martin, a global aerospace, defense, and security company headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland. Lockheed Martin operates through three main business areas: Aeronautics, Space, and Rotary and Mission Systems, and it is one of the world’s largest defense contractors. The company provides military aircraft, missiles, space systems, and related services to government and commercial customers. Notable programs include the F-35 Lightning II, as well as other aircraft and space systems.

Historically, Lockheed’s innovations and programs have had a lasting impact on aviation and national security. The legacy continues through Lockheed Martin’s ongoing research, development, and production efforts across air, space, and integrated systems.