Lockheed Martin Stock Reaches Major Milestone with German F-35 Delivery

Lockheed Martin has achieved a significant breakthrough in its defense operations, marked by the commencement of final assembly for Germany's inaugural F-35A fighter jet. Alongside this strategic advancement, the corporation has announced a substantial dividend increase and continues to manage an unprecedented order backlog. These developments present a compelling case for evaluating the investment potential of Lockheed Martin shares.

Demonstrating robust financial health and shareholder commitment, Lockheed Martin has raised its quarterly dividend from $3.30 to $3.45 per share. This adjustment translates to an annualized distribution of $13.80 per share, yielding approximately 3.0% at current trading levels.

Market analysts have responded enthusiastically to these developments. Susquehanna financial strategists significantly revised their price target upward, elevating it from $490 to $590 while reaffirming their positive outlook. This reassessment reflects confidence in the company's dual strengths of shareholder returns and operational execution.

Record Order Backlog Signals Sustained Growth

The defense contractor's current order portfolio has swelled to a historic $179 billion, underscoring strong global demand for its aerospace and defense systems. Company leadership confirmed during third-quarter reporting that production scaling remains on schedule, directly enhancing revenue projections for the aeronautics division.

Should investors sell immediately? Or is it worth buying Lockheed?

For prospective investors, this represents exceptional visibility into future revenue streams. The systematic fulfillment of this extensive pipeline, including international mega-contracts like Germany's F-35 program, provides a clear growth trajectory for the coming years.

Germany's F-35 Program Advances

In Fort Worth, Texas, manufacturing has entered its final phase for Germany's first F-35A combat aircraft, identified by manufacturing number MG-01. While formal delivery to the German Air Force is scheduled for 2026, the initial operational plan involves stationing the aircraft at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas. This location will serve as the primary training facility for German pilots and maintenance crews.

This production milestone represents more than symbolic progress—it confirms the successful implementation of a multi-billion dollar international defense agreement. Lockheed Martin has established an ambitious manufacturing target of approximately 200 F-35 jet deliveries for 2025, effectively averaging one aircraft per business day throughout the year.

The convergence of dividend growth, analyst optimism, record orders, and successful contract execution positions Lockheed Martin as a noteworthy consideration for investors seeking exposure in the defense sector.