Rick Ambrose: Lockheed Eyes Satellite Electronics Servicing Concept

Rick Ambrose, executive vice president for space business at Lockheed Martin, said the company is conducting research-and-development work on a satellite servicing concept to replace or repair computer systems and other electronics on orbit, Breaking Defense reported Monday.

“What I’m really after is: how can I service satellite for electronics,” Ambrose, a 2019 Wash100 winner, told reporters at the Paris Air Show. “Imagine … if I could go up and upgrade a processor every three to five years just like you do at home … or whenever you have a new capability.”

He noted that Lockheed has increased its investments in augmented reality, robotics and other novel manufacturing methods in the past five years to reduce costs and accelerate satellite production in support of clients’ missions.

“Fundamentally as a business, I need to be there to enable the customer’s mission or capability no matter what,” he said.

Ambrose also cited that military and commercial clients are showing increased interest in bigger and more complex satellites.