Lockheed Martin Launches 10th Term of Global Rocketry Challenge (GRC) STEAM Initiative

On May 16, 2026, Lockheed Martin launched the 10th consecutive term of its Global Rocketry Challenge (GRC), a STEAM education program designed to nurture next-generation talent. Celebrating its 10th anniversary since its inception in 2016, GRC has reached a cumulative total of 35 schools and over 190 students. Lockheed Martin has supported human resource development in science and technology through practical model rocket manufacturing.

To mark this milestone and broaden learning opportunities, the 'Continuous Challenge School' initiative was pilot-introduced this year. This allows schools that participated in GRC in the past to join lectures and technical training online, providing continuous learning opportunities regardless of their location.

On the same day, an appointment ceremony for the 10th GRC was held at the Funabashi Campus of Nihon University College of Science and Technology. Participating students from selected schools obtained the Level 4 Launch Operator License after attending training and successfully launched model rockets they built themselves. Students will now focus on developing rockets for the National Model Rocket Competition in October, under the guidance of the Japan Model Rocketry Association and Leave a Nest Co., Ltd.

Participating schools for the 10th GRC include:

**Selected Schools:** - Ibaraki National College of Technology - Keiai High School - Suma Gakuen High School - Nara Gakuen Tomigaoka High School - Yokohama Jogakuin Junior & Senior High School

**Continuous Challenge Schools:** - Iwase Nihon University High School - Okayama Prefectural Kurashiki Industrial High School - Sapporo Nihon University Junior & Senior High School - Reitaku Mizunami High School

William Blair, Vice President and Chief Executive for Lockheed Martin Asia and India, addressed the students: 'You are the architects of the future. Do not be afraid to challenge yourselves or to fail. These are the paths to true breakthroughs. Let’s launch the next decade of innovation together.'

This initiative contributes to expanding the pool of future science and technology talent in Japan. It aligns with the 7th Science, Technology, and Innovation Basic Plan (starting FY2026), which emphasizes the 'Resurgence of Science' and the promotion of STEAM education as key strategies for rebuilding Japan's innovation ecosystem and strengthening its industrial competitiveness.