Lockheed Martin Corporation

Lockheed Martin represents the world's largest defence contractor and a primary enabler of Israeli air operations. As the manufacturer of F-35 stealth fighters, Hellfire missiles, THAAD air defence systems, and C-130 transport aircraft, the company supplies critical weapons platforms documented in operations the International Criminal Court has charged as crimes against humanity, and which the ICJ found face a 'plausible' genocide case.

Key Leverage Points

• University Divestment Momentum: MIT's decision to sever ties with the Lockheed Martin Seed Fund represents the first US university to end an Israeli weapons manufacturer partnership since October 2023. Over 20 universities have passed divestment resolutions specifically naming Lockheed Martin, creating template for broader institutional action.
• Pension Fund Precedent: Norway's Government Pension Fund Global previously divested from Lockheed Martin on ethical grounds, establishing precedent for other sovereign wealth and pension funds to follow.
• Congressional Oversight: As a primary US government contractor, Lockheed Martin weapons sales require congressional notification and approval. Sustained advocacy can influence legislative oversight of Israeli military sales.
• Public Procurement Accountability: UK, EU, and other allied government contracts create democratic pressure points. Citizens can demand their governments review procurement relationships with companies enabling documented human rights violations.

Documented Impact

The evidence of Lockheed Martin's role in Israeli military operations is extensive and well-documented. The company's F-35I Adir stealth fighters have flown over 15,000 operational flight hours since October 2023, participating in what the Pentagon described as 'thousands of sorties in all theaters' including Gaza, Lebanon, Yemen, and Iran. Israel became the first nation to use the F-35 in combat (2018) and the first to deploy the aircraft's 'Beast Mode' external weapons configuration (2024).

Hellfire missiles manufactured by Lockheed Martin are among the primary weapons used by Israeli Apache helicopters in Gaza operations. Approximately 2,000 Hellfire missiles were delivered to Israel between October 7 and November 14, 2023 alone. The AFSC Investigate database documents that between 2004-2021, Lockheed Martin supplied Israel with at least 102 F-16s and 50 F-35s. In June 2024, Israel signed a $3 billion contract for 25 additional F-35s during ongoing Gaza operations.

The October 2024 deployment of a THAAD battery to Israel, with US military personnel, represents unprecedented direct military integration. The system conducted its first combat interception in December 2024. Lockheed Martin reported $5.5 billion in Middle East sales since October 2023, with its Missiles and Fire Control segment revenues increasing 13% to $12.68 billion.

Engagement Strategy

Focus campaigns on institutional divestment and legislative advocacy. Target university endowments with MIT precedent as template. Engage pension fund trustees with Norway's historical divestment as reference. For US audiences, coordinate with peace organisations to pressure congressional representatives on Foreign Military Financing and weapons export approvals. In allied countries (UK, EU, Australia), demand parliamentary scrutiny of defence procurement from companies enabling documented human rights violations. Frame messaging around taxpayer accountability and international humanitarian law compliance. Build coalitions across peace movements, student organisations, and institutional investor advocates to maintain sustained pressure on multiple fronts.