Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Names New President as Greg Ulmer Retires

Event summary

  • Greg Ulmer, president of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, to retire after 30 years, effective June 1, 2026.
  • Orlando Sanchez, Jr. (OJ), former Skunk Works leader, named successor.
  • Aeronautics division generates $30 billion in revenue with 35,000 employees.
  • Sanchez joined Lockheed Martin in 2014 after a career as an Air Force officer and F-22 pilot.

The big picture

Lockheed Martin's leadership shift in Aeronautics comes as defense contractors face pressure to innovate while managing large-scale programs. Sanchez's background in cutting-edge development at Skunk Works suggests a focus on next-generation air power, aligning with broader industry trends toward advanced aerospace technologies. The $30 billion division's performance will be critical for Lockheed Martin's overall financial health.

What we're watching

Strategic Continuity
How Sanchez will balance Skunk Works' innovation culture with Aeronautics' operational scale.
Defense Budget Dynamics
Whether Lockheed Martin can sustain Aeronautics' growth amid global defense spending shifts.
Talent Retention
The pace at which Sanchez integrates Ulmer's institutional knowledge during the transition.