Lockheed Martin, a global defense technology company, recently opened a facility in Dallas that will streamline the development, testing and prototype production of next-generation systems and solutions for U.S. government customers.
The Rapid Fielding Center is integrated with the manufacturing floor. This model reduces cost and accelerates the delivery of innovative capabilities. Skilled tradespeople can provide immediate feedback on a design. A modular layout can be reconfigured quickly to meet changing needs.
The facility will use the latest in production and prototyping technologies to allow prototypes to be developed in months not years. This will allow the company to develop and scale new capabilities quickly in response to the government’s accelerated acquisition schedules. Data captured during prototyping will allow for product enhancements that directly address evolving threat environments.
“Over the coming months, our multidisciplinary teams will work hand in hand with U.S. partners to execute additional prototype runs, integrate emerging technologies and transition capabilities to full-rate production,” Mike Patton, Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control Operations vice president, said. “The Rapid Fielding Center gives our customers the agility, flexibility and discreet mobility they require to maintain decisive advantage across any operational domain.”
Lockheed Martin is planning to expand production at more than 20 facilities over the next three years.