Lockheed Martin Skunk Works is in the process of  restructuring and will become Lockheed Martin Aeronautical Systems, Palmdale.  The Skunk Works programs will continue within the new facility, but the portions of the site will be devoted to commercial programs as well.  Our meeting was handled by Rick Silz, Assistant Director of Flight Test, because his boss had another meeting to attend.

Victor Meza gave a presentation on the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missle development and flight test.  His presentation ended with a brief video clip of JASSM's first powered, autonomous flight.

Tony Stallone discussed his experiences with F-117 Brake Testing.  He showed us pictures of the test aircraft getting doused with water by a poorly-aimed fire truck nozzle when the hydraulic lines caught fire after a maximum-energy rejected takeoff brake test. 

Dick Burton gave an overview of what was formerly known as Skunk Works and touched on each of the programs in existence at the facility.  Besides military programs such as Joint Strike Fighter, F-117, and the venerable U-2, Lockheed is exploring super sonic business jets and enormous cargo blimp-like vehicles.

Dave Borden gave an update on the status of the X-33 and reviewed its correlation to VentureStar. 

Our thanks to all these gentlemen who made our trip to the world's most famous aeronautical R&D facility so enjoyable.