Lockheed Martin To Acquire Astrotech Space Operations Business
From Astrotech Corporation
May 29, 2014
Lockheed Martin has entered into a
definitive agreement to acquire the assets of the Astrotech
Space Operations business of Astrotech Corporation. Astrotech
Space Operations is a leader in satellite launch preparation
services, from final testing and fueling to encapsulation and
day-of launch operations. The terms of the agreement are not
material to Lockheed Martin.
Subject to the satisfaction of
customary closing conditions, including approval by the
Astrotech Corporation shareholders, the transaction is expected
to close in the third quarter of 2014. Upon closing, Astrotech
Space Operations will be operated as a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Lockheed Martin and managed by the corporation's Space
Systems business area.
"Astrotech Space Operations' expertise
in the final stages of launch preparation complements our
existing capabilities in satellite design, production and
integration," said
Marillyn Hewson, Lockheed
Martin Chairman, President and CEO. "This new capability expands
our Space Systems services portfolio and enhances the value we
offer to current and future Lockheed Martin and Astrotech
customers."
Astrotech Space Operations has been a
global satellite processing leader since 1981. With over 300
successful spacecraft missions to date, Astrotech Space
Operations provides all support necessary for successful
spacecraft processing to prepare for launch on a variety of U.S.
and international launch vehicles.
"Joining Lockheed Martin will benefit
our customers and our employees," said
Don White, Senior Vice
President and General Manager of Astrotech Space Operations. "As
a wholly-owned subsidiary, we'll be able to deliver the same
level of expert, affordable launch preparation services our
customers have come to expect with the added strength and
stability of a company that's been a leader in the space
industry since day one."
Astrotech Space Operations serves a
wide range of government and commercial customers, including
both U.S. and international agencies and firms. Headquartered in
Titusville, Florida, Astrotech Space Operations'
facilities are located near
Cape Canaveral, Florida and at Vandenberg Air
Force Base,
California, to support launches on both coasts.
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