Lockheed Martin Agrees to $29.5 Million Discrimination Settlement

Lockheed Martin agreed to a $29.5 million settlement with U.S. authorities over allegations of reverse discrimination against white workers. The company will pay $22 million to the government and $7.5 million to affected employees. Lockheed denied wrongdoing but settled to avoid litigation. The case involved a 2021 bonus initiative flagging demographic outliers, with federal officials alleging pressure to adjust selections based on race.

Lockheed Martin (LMT) plans a $420 million expansion of its missile production facility in Camden, Arkansas, creating 650 jobs. The expansion will increase production of PAC-3 and THAAD interceptors, which have seen high demand due to conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. The facility supports seven major U.S. Department of Defense programs.

L3Harris (LHX) and Lockheed Martin (LMT) benefit from missile production demand. LMT raised 2026 revenue and free cash flow forecasts, while LHX increased revenue and EPS forecasts but cut 2028 cash flow. LMT trades at a lower P/E and has less debt. LHX has higher net margins and longer-term growth. Both are investing in missile capacity, with LMT securing a $4.7B contract with LHX.

Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Air Force tested the Mk21A reentry vehicle, an upgrade for the nation's future intercontinental ballistic missile system. The test validated next-gen technologies under a $1B+ contract. Lockheed will refine the design using flight data. Jason Watson, VP of Strategic Reentry Programs, emphasized testing's role in ensuring reliability and performance.

Lockheed Martin (LMT) plans a $420M expansion in Camden, Arkansas, to boost missile and defense systems capacity, adding hundreds of jobs. The Pentagon is exploring a 75-year rare earth supply deal, crucial for Lockheed's weapons programs. The expansion supports higher munitions volumes and long-term margins, while the rare earth plan secures critical components.

Lockheed Martin (LMT) agreed to pay $29.5M to settle discrimination claims. $22M goes to the U.S. under the False Claims Act, $7.5M to employees. The DOJ alleges race/sex-based practices from 2019. Lockheed denies liability. Q3 sales rose 11% to $20.7B, net earnings $1.8B. Stock fell 0.59% to $639.33.