The company said its approach compresses the time needed for the first unit to move through manufacturing to nearly half the traditional duration. Production data has also helped identify bottlenecks, reduce rework and lower staffing requirements, generating cost and schedule savings.
A dedicated automation cell runs alongside the final assembly line, feeding information back to engineers during tactical builds. That data supports a digital twin of the QuadStar production process, allowing the team to refine assembly sequences and model potential changes.
The manufacturing approach draws on Camden’s experience producing PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement interceptors and Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System munitions. Engineers, production supervisors and suppliers assess each new component for manufacturability before it reaches the line.
Lockheed Martin is investing in additional vendors for multiple interceptor components to broaden its supply base and support dual sourcing. The company is keeping NGSRI tooling, fixtures and supply-chain pathways separate from other munitions programs so that expansion can proceed without disrupting their production.
That separation is intended to support increases toward customer-required production rates while PAC-3 MSE, GMLRS and other programs continue operating. Lockheed Martin said its manufacturing investments and supplier choices are lowering QuadStar unit costs and shortening delivery timelines.
