Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) opened an 88,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Courtland, Alabama, to produce the Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) for the Missile Defense Agency.

The Missile Assembly Building 5 incorporates digital manufacturing tools and automated workflows designed to support production of the missile defense system. The facility uses digital twin methodology and draws practices from existing programs including Terminal High Altitude Area Defense.

"You are not just building infrastructure, you are building the Arsenal of Freedom," said Gen. Mike Guetlein, Director of Golden Dome for America, the Department of Defense's missile defense development effort.

The NGI system features modular architecture that allows technology upgrades while the missile remains in its silo. The interceptor connects with space-based sensors, radars and command systems as part of a layered defense network.

"Think of this as deterrence through defense," said Christopher Jewell, NGI vice president and program manager at Lockheed Martin. "It sends a clear signal that threats can be detected, tracked and defeated before they ever reach their intended target."

Components of the NGI system are advancing through development testing ahead of Critical Design Review. The system's engagement capability, sensors, software and propulsion elements are demonstrating performance at the system level.

Lockheed Martin has operated in the region since 1963 and has produced defense systems in Courtland since 1994. The company's Troy, Alabama facility will also support NGI production through hardware integration and manufacturing.

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong noted the facility will create jobs in north Alabama while supporting homeland defense capabilities.