Lockheed is doubling its investment in space innovation

The defense company Lockheed Martin Corporation (LMT) intends to increase space innovation investments significantly. Lockheed management is confident in the prospects of the space technology market. Space can become the main focus of Lockheed’s strategic development. In early August, its venture capital division announced plans to double to $400 million in investments in technology startups, with most of them in space. This week, the management of Lockheed Martin will hold a meeting dedicated to this topic. 

Perhaps we will make different decisions in this area. It should note that Lockheed Martin has already actively invested in space startups. For example, the company has invested in the manufacturer of miniature satellites ABL and the company Orbit Fab, which develops technologies for refueling satellites. Now Lockheed Martin says that its venture investments should be on making a profit and acquiring technologies that can be useful in the company’s projects. Currently, Lockheed Martin on several of the most exciting areas for it: new sensors for spacecraft, machine intelligence, and quantum computing for space applications. 

The focus will also be on technologies that can be used in Lockheed’s defense business, for example, integrating satellite intelligence and communications into the situational awareness systems of F-35 fighters. Previously, Lockheed tried to acquire space technologies by purchasing Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc., a developer, and manufacturer of rocket engines. Startups can bring Lockheed a more diverse set of technologies. In addition, it signals that Lockheed does not intend to lose its position as one of the global technology leaders.