Lockheed Martin Acquires Ultra Maritime for $3.45 Billion

Lockheed Martin signed a definitive agreement on July 6, 2026, to acquire Ultra Maritime from the private equity firm Advent International for $3.45 billion. The acquisition integrates the British undersea warfare specialist into Lockheed Martin's Rotary and Mission Systems business area, providing the company with a broader portfolio of sonar systems, sonobuoys, torpedo defense countermeasures, and autonomous maritime sensing platforms.

Ultra Maritime grew significantly under Advent's ownership since 2022, following a merger of Cobham and Ultra Electronics. Advent invested approximately $170 million in product development and manufacturing, driving an annual revenue growth of roughly 17%. The company recently secured a U.S. Navy development contract for an underwater acoustic decoy and established partnerships with Anduril Industries and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems to advance unmanned anti-submarine capabilities.

The move follows a 19% drop in operating profit for Lockheed Martin's Rotary and Mission Systems segment in the first quarter of 2026. The acquisition occurs amidst rising global demand for military technology linked to conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as a proposed $1.5 trillion defense budget for 2027 from U.S. President Donald Trump. The transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.