ORLANDO, Fla., May 12, 2004. Lockheed Martin received a $15 million firm fixed-price contract delivery order from the Air National Guard (ANG) for more Sniper XR (eXtended Range) advanced targeting pods.

The seven-year Advanced Targeting Pod (ATP) contract provides options for pods, associated equipment, spares and support for both the Air Force and Air National Guard. The Sniper XR has potential domestic and international sales of several billion dollars over the life of the program.

"This contract demonstrates the Air National Guard's confidence in Sniper XR's capabilities," said Ken Fuhr, Sniper XR program director at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "Our success in Qualification, Test and Evaluation demonstrated Sniper XR's superior long-range identification capability which significantly multiplies the combat effectiveness of the F-16 and F-15E aircrew," Fuhr said.

Qualification, Test and Evaluation (QT&E) is on target for completion in May and the operational phase is on schedule to begin this summer.

This current order, which also includes spares and training, is in addition to the recent award (Lot IV) of targeting pods for the U.S. Air Force and brings the total number of pods purchased to 92. A third increment of the Lot IV buy for the U.S. Air Force is expected this year.

Sniper XR pods will initially equip the U.S. Air Force F-16 Block 50 and the Air National Guard's F-16 Block 30 aircraft. Follow-on procurements are expected to outfit the F-16 Block 40, F-15E and A-10 fleets. The U.S. Air Force is evaluating Sniper XR to fulfill targeting requirements for the B-1 and B-52 aircraft.

Sniper XR incorporates a high-resolution, mid-wave third generation Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR), a dual-mode laser and a CCD-TV along with a laser spot tracker and a laser marker. Designed as an affordable precision targeting system in a single, lightweight pod, Sniper XR is fully compatible with the latest J-series munitions and precision guided weaponry.

Headquartered in Bethesda, MD, Lockheed Martin employs about 130,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services. For more information, see www.lockheedmartin.com.