Lockheed Martin to support future Athena launches from Alaska's KLC

DENVER, Colo., 3 Mar., 2012. Lockheed Martin Corporation [NYSE: LMT] has chosen Alaska’s Kodiak Launch Complex (KLC) as its dedicated West Coast launch facility for Athena rocket launches.

The company’s decision will enable Alaska Aerospace Corporation to move ahead with plans to expand its space launch capabilities. Lockheed Martin has been working with the state of Alaska and Alaska Aerospace Corporation on expansion plans for the new medium–lift launch pad to support potential Athena III launches.

Last year, Lockheed Martin announced its intent to offer Athena II services with a ride-share launch from Kodiak in late 2013. The company is considering whether to expand the Athena II program as it evaluates the business case for Athena III launches from Alaska. The Athena III would be capable of launching satellites weighing 4,600 kg (10,150 lbs) from the West Coast and 5,900 kg (13, 000 lbs) from the East Coast.

Working with the Alaska Aerospace Corporation, Lockheed Martin will finalize its plans for Athena III over the next few months.