Lockheed Martin Shares Rise 1.07% on RIG-360 Milestone as Trading Volume Ranks 153rd in U.S. Stocks

Lockheed Martin (LMT) closed August 5, 2025, with a 1.07% gain, trading on $700 million in volume that ranked it 153rd among U.S. stocks. The move followed key operational and financial updates that reinforced its position in defense technology markets.

The company marked a critical milestone in its RIG-360 program, completing the first phase of the Engineering, Manufacturing, and Development (EMD) program. This system, designed to enable 360-degree missile communications for the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) family, advanced to its second development stage after finalizing the complex Array Assembly subsystem. The RIG-360’s integration into the U.S. Army’s Integrated Fire Control Network is positioned to enhance missile defense capabilities by linking sensors with optimal weapon systems.

Lockheed also secured a $114 million definitized contract for the RIG-360 program on May 9, 2025, signaling institutional support. Concurrently, the company finalized the acquisition of Amentum’s Rapid Solutions portfolio, expanding its radar and payload capabilities. This strategic move aligns with its Golden Dome offering, a defense system designed to counter hypersonic threats.

Operational progress included the delivery of the 250th MK 48 Guidance and Control Section, a critical component for torpedoes, and the shipment of AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar antennas to Japan for Aegis-equipped vessels. These updates highlight sustained demand for Lockheed’s core defense technologies amid global security challenges.

Financially, the company reported second-quarter 2025 results marked by $18.2 billion in sales, though pre-tax losses on programs reduced net earnings to $342 million. Despite this, a $3.30 per share dividend for Q3 2025 was declared, reflecting ongoing shareholder returns.

A strategy of purchasing the top 500 stocks by daily trading volume and holding for one day generated a 166.71% return from 2022 to the present, outperforming the benchmark by 137.53%. This underscores the impact of liquidity concentration on short-term performance, particularly in volatile markets.