"The team once again executed a smooth and disciplined on-orbit deployment and
checkout of all spacecraft systems and we're extremely pleased to have another
high-performance GPS IIR-M satellite in our robust constellation," said Col.
Dave Madden, the U.S. Air Force GPS Wing Commander. "I salute the entire
government-industry GPS IIR-M team for their talent and determination to
provide advanced navigation accuracy and reliability for GPS users worldwide."

Lockheed Martin and its navigation payload provider ITT of Clifton, N.J.
designed and built 21 IIR spacecraft and subsequently modernized eight of
those spacecraft designated Block IIR-M. Each IIR-M satellite includes a
modernized antenna panel that provides increased signal power to receivers on
the ground, two new military signals for improved accuracy, enhanced
encryption and anti-jamming capabilities for the military, and a second civil
signal that will provide users with an open access signal on a different
frequency.

"Reaching this milestone is a critical step in the mission to provide advanced
position, timing and navigation capabilities for the warfighter and civil
users," said Don DeGryse, Lockheed Martin's vice president of Navigation
Systems. "The successful launch and operational turnover is a testament to the
capabilities of our entire GPS team. Working together with our Air Force
partner is a source of tremendous pride for Lockheed Martin."

GPS provides essential services including situational awareness and precision
weapon guidance for the military. It is also an information resource
supporting a wide range of civil, scientific and commercial functions -- from
air traffic control to the Internet -- with precision location and timing
information.

Building upon a legacy of providing progressively advanced spacecraft for the
current GPS constellation, Lockheed Martin, along with ITT Corporation and
General Dynamics will produce the next generation of global positioning
satellites, designated GPS III. This program will improve position, navigation
and timing services for the warfighter and civil users.

The team is progressing on-schedule in the Critical Design Review (CDR) phase
of the program and is on track to launch the first GPS IIIA satellite in 2014.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company
that employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the
research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of
advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported
2008 sales of $42.7 billion.

Media Contact: Steve Tatum, 408-742-7531; e-mail, Stephen.o.tatum@lmco.com
Samantha Un, 408-742-3516; e-mail, Samantha.Un@lmco.com
source: www.reuters.com