Lockheed Martin
Corporation today announced that Intelsat, Ltd. will acquire
Lockheed Martin’s COMSAT General business. The purchase price is $90 million
in cash, with an option for Intelsat, in certain circumstances, to substitute
up to $40 million in stock for cash. The transaction is not expected to have
a material impact on Lockheed Martin’s results or financial position. The
acquisition, which is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing
conditions, is anticipated to be completed by year’s end.
Additionally, Intelsat will purchase an Atlas launch vehicle from Lockheed
Martin Commercial Launch Services, Inc., a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, for
the launch of a future satellite.
Lockheed Martin’s COMSAT General business provides satellite-centric
telecommunications services and equipment, concentrating on international
fixed and mobile satellite systems for clients with quick response and high
availability needs. Through the transaction, Intelsat will obtain all of
COMSAT General’s existing capacity service contracts with its customers.
“This transaction is consistent with our intent to focus on core
businesses and monetize valuable assets that are not elements of our long-term
strategy,” said Jeffrey MacLauchlan, vice president, financial strategies for
Lockheed Martin. “This transaction serves to further rationalize the Lockheed
Martin portfolio, and expands Intelsat’s existing capabilities.”
While Lockheed Martin and Intelsat pursue requisite regulatory approvals
from the U.S. government, COMSAT General will continue to operate as a
Lockheed Martin business. The business’s main office is located in Bethesda,
MD. Additionally it has offices in Clarksburg, MD; Paumalu, HI and Landstuhl,
Germany and employs approximately 30 people.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 130,000
people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design,
development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems,
products and services. The corporation reported 2003 sales of $31.8 billion.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning
of the “safe harbor” provisions of the federal securities laws. These
forward-looking statements include statements about the expected timing for
closing of the transaction and are based on management’s current expectations
and beliefs. Some of the risks, uncertainties and other factors that may
affect the forward-looking statements in this press release include: the
ability to obtain or the timing of obtaining required governmental and
regulatory approvals; the failure to satisfy other closing conditions
prescribed by the transaction documents; and other risks affecting the COMSAT
General and Intelsat businesses. Lockheed Martin disclaims a duty to provide
updates to forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information,
future events or other occurrences. For additional information, visit our website:
http://www.lockheedmartin.com
