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Lockheed Martin Increases Javelin Missile Production

Lockheed Martin is undertaking a major upgrade to its Javelin production line as part of an ambitious plan to increase output and modernize processes, aimed at meeting growing demand from the U.S. military and its allies worldwide.


The defense contractor currently produces approximately 2,400 Javelin missiles per year, but that number is expected to increase to 3,960 per year by the end of 2026. This expansion requires significant innovation across its facilities to ensure the system continues to meet operational and quality expectations.

In a statement, Rich Liccion, Vice President of the Javelin Joint Venture (JJV) and Director of the Lockheed Martin Javelin Program, said, “The Javelin program’s investment in new tooling and test equipment is a key factor in our ability to increase production capacity and meet the growing demand for the system. Our team’s focus on innovation and efficiency will enable us to deliver high-quality products to our customers while reducing costs and improving overall performance.”

As part of this effort, Lockheed Martin has introduced advanced tooling and state-of-the-art test equipment at its Pike County Production Facility in Troy, Alabama. In May, the company launched its first redesigned continuity test station for Javelin missiles and rounds, replacing an outdated system to improve production flow.

This technology ensures that the Javelin missile's interconnected subcomponents communicate properly, strengthening product integrity as production scales up.

The company is also implementing SystemLink, a new digital toolkit that automates the collection and analysis of data from the manufacturing process, enabling faster decision-making and quality control across its facilities in Troy and Ocala, Florida.

These improvements go beyond tooling. Lockheed Martin and Raytheon, partners in the Javelin Joint Venture, are collaborating with suppliers to strengthen the production chain and integrate advanced manufacturing technologies.

Andy Amaro, President of the Javelin Joint Venture and Javelin Program Director at Raytheon, said, “Leveraging the new test station technology allows the JJV to increase Javelin production. We are committed to maintaining the high standards of quality and performance that the U.S. and its allied partners expect from Javelin.”

In total, 14 new test stations are planned for Troy, eight for Ocala, and two for Huntsville, Alabama. These cyber-compliant systems will enhance the validation and testing of Javelin's environmental, functional, and performance requirements.

One key enhancement is a new test station capable of evaluating four Javelin seeker missiles simultaneously, a significant improvement over the current single-seeker missile testing capability. This innovation is expected to reduce downtime and accelerate delivery.

With the escalation of global conflict, the Javelin missile remains a critical component of Western defense strategy. Known for its proven anti-tank capabilities, the Javelin system has been deployed by US forces and more than 20 allied nations.

Lockheed Martin noted that the expanded production line will reduce missile backlogs and shorten lead times for customers worldwide. Furthermore, the standardized design of the new test station opens up opportunities for international co-production, allowing US allies to collaborate with domestic industrial partners.

The company emphasized that these efforts will not only support military readiness but also drive job creation and economic benefits in partner nations.

The Javelin is developed and manufactured by the Javelin Joint Venture, a collaboration between Lockheed Martin in Orlando, Florida, and Raytheon in Tucson, Arizona.

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