Lockheed Martin will move production of its Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) to an assembly line at the company's manufacturing complex in Camden, Ark., where the company expects to gain significant production efficiencies and cost reductions.
"Lockheed Martin is implementing a low-risk production plan that will take advantage of the proven, outstanding Camden manufacturing operation and help make our JLTV more affordable for the U.S. Army and Marine Corps," said Scott Greene, vice president of ground vehicles for Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control.
JLTV prototypes were produced at BAE Systems' manufacturing facility in Sealy, Texas, but plans were recently announced to close the Sealy plant. BAE Systems will remain a key partner on the Lockheed Martin JLTV team, providing integrated cabs, protection solutions and other vehicle manufacturing expertise.
"BAE Systems remains committed to Lockheed Martin and our JLTV program," said Mark Signorelli, vice president and general manager of combat vehicles for BAE Systems. "Recognizing the budget pressures our customers face, the team is reshaping our efforts to provide the most cost-competitive offering with exceptional technical capability and product quality to our end users."
Lockheed Martin's Camden complex has a strong reputation for on-schedule delivery of high-quality products including High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers, Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets, Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missiles and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) ground vehicles. Over the last decade Camden has won more than 60 awards for quality, safety, security and community service.
Designed as a more capable and survivable replacement for many of the current Army and Marine Corps HMMWV "Humvee" vehicles, the Lockheed Martin JLTV is systems-engineered to return crucial protection, mobility and transportability to soldiers and marines. Its advantages include improved crew protection and mobility, lower logistical support costs, superior fuel efficiency, exportable power-generation with substantial margin for future growth, and state-of-the-art connectivity with other platforms and systems.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 116,000 people worldwide. For more information, visit www.lockheedmartin.com.
