Lockheed Martin

Definition

Lockheed Martin is an American aerospace, defense, arms, and security company formed in 1995 through the merger of Lockheed Corporation and Martin Marietta. This company became a major player in the Cold War economic landscape by producing advanced military technology and weapons systems that supported U.S. defense initiatives and contributed to the arms race between the United States and the Soviet Union.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lockheed Martin played a crucial role in developing technologies like stealth aircraft, missiles, and satellite systems that were vital during the Cold War.
2. The company's F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II fighters represent significant advancements in military aviation technology, which were developed partly in response to Cold War dynamics.
3. Lockheed Martin has consistently been one of the top contractors for the U.S. government, benefiting from increased defense budgets during the Cold War.
4. The merger that formed Lockheed Martin was aimed at creating a more competitive and efficient defense contractor amidst growing global military demands.
5. The company's focus on research and development has resulted in significant innovations that have not only impacted military capabilities but also had commercial applications in aerospace.

Review Questions

• How did Lockheed Martin contribute to U.S. military capabilities during the Cold War?
  • Lockheed Martin significantly enhanced U.S. military capabilities by developing advanced technologies such as stealth aircraft, missile systems, and satellite communications. These innovations were essential for maintaining an edge over the Soviet Union during the arms race. Their production of next-generation fighter jets like the F-22 Raptor was crucial for national security and strategic military operations.
• Analyze the impact of Lockheed Martin's contracts on U.S. defense spending throughout the Cold War era.
  • Lockheed Martin's contracts had a substantial impact on U.S. defense spending as they accounted for a significant portion of government expenditures on military technology. As a leading defense contractor, Lockheed Martin benefited from increased budgets allocated for military development during the Cold War, which contributed to its growth and innovation in aerospace technologies. This trend not only shaped Lockheed Martin's future but also influenced the overall landscape of U.S. defense priorities.
• Evaluate how Lockheed Martin's technological advancements during the Cold War influenced post-Cold War military strategies globally.
  • Lockheed Martin's technological advancements during the Cold War laid the groundwork for modern military strategies worldwide. The development of stealth technology and precision-guided munitions has fundamentally changed how nations approach warfare, emphasizing speed, accuracy, and reduced visibility on the battlefield. As countries adapted these innovations, they redefined their military doctrines to prioritize advanced technology, influencing international conflicts and defense strategies even after the Cold War ended.

Related terms

Cold War: A prolonged period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union and the United States and their respective allies, marked by ideological conflict and military competition.

Defense Spending: Government expenditure on military forces and defense-related activities, which increased significantly during the Cold War to support national security.

Arms Race: A competition between nations to achieve superior military capabilities, characterized by the buildup of nuclear arsenals and advanced weapon systems.