10-KPeriod: FY2004

LOCKHEED MARTIN CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2004

Filed February 28, 2005For Securities:LMT

Summary

Lockheed Martin Corporation's 2004 annual report highlights a robust year with net sales increasing by 12% to $35.5 billion, driven by strong performance across all five business segments: Aeronautics, Electronic Systems, Space Systems, Integrated Systems & Solutions, and Information & Technology Services. The company's primary customer remains the U.S. Government, accounting for approximately 80% of total sales. Key growth drivers included increased volume in combat aircraft programs like the F-16 and F/A-22, along with progress on the Joint Strike Fighter program. The company also saw growth in its Electronic Systems segment, particularly in maritime systems and fire control, and continued to secure significant government contracts in space systems and IT services. Backlog remained strong at $74 billion, though slightly down from the prior year, indicating continued demand for its advanced technology products and services. The company also continued its focus on financial discipline, including debt reduction and share repurchases, while managing significant research and development investments.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales increased by 12% to $35.5 billion in 2004, with growth across all business segments.
  • 2The U.S. Government represented approximately 80% of total net sales, underscoring the company's reliance on defense and government contracts.
  • 3Key programs driving Aeronautics segment growth included the F-16, F/A-22, and the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF).
  • 4The company reported a strong backlog of $74.0 billion at the end of 2004, with $45.6 billion expected to be fulfilled beyond one year.
  • 5Lockheed Martin continued to manage its capital effectively, repaying $1.1 billion in long-term debt and repurchasing $772 million in company stock.
  • 6Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) improved to 11.9% in 2004, reflecting enhanced capital efficiency.
  • 7The company made significant investments in research and development, totaling $962 million for the year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lockheed Martin's net sales in 2004 increased to $35.5 billion. The primary revenue drivers were its core defense and government contracts, with the U.S. Government accounting for approximately 80% of sales. Growth was particularly strong in the Aeronautics segment, fueled by programs like the F-16, F/A-22, and Joint Strike Fighter (JSF). The Electronic Systems, Space Systems, Integrated Systems & Solutions, and Information & Technology Services segments also contributed to the overall sales increase through various defense and government-related projects.

Lockheed Martin demonstrated strong financial management by repaying $1.1 billion of long-term debt in 2004, significantly reducing its overall debt portfolio. The company improved its debt-to-total capital ratio to 42% from 58% in 2000. In addition to debt reduction, the company actively engaged in share repurchases, buying back $772 million worth of its common stock, and increased its dividend payments, reflecting a balanced approach to capital deployment aimed at enhancing shareholder value.

The report identifies several key risks. A primary concern is the potential for reduced funding for defense procurement and research and development programs, which could adversely affect revenues and profitability. Military transformation initiatives and changing planning priorities may also impact existing programs. As a government contractor, Lockheed Martin is subject to stringent procurement rules, potential contract terminations, and the risk of negative government audits. Developing new technologies also carries inherent risks. Finally, the company's earnings and margins can be affected by the mix of its contracts, the performance of its subcontractors and suppliers, and the accuracy of its accounting estimates.

All five segments showed growth. Aeronautics saw a 15% sales increase driven by combat aircraft like the F-16 and F/A-22, and progress on the JSF. Electronic Systems grew by 8%, boosted by Maritime Systems & Sensors and Missiles & Fire Control. Space Systems increased sales by 6%, with contributions from satellite and missile defense programs, though launch services saw a slight decline. Integrated Systems & Solutions and Information & Technology Services each experienced double-digit sales growth, primarily from intelligence, defense, and IT services for government clients.