Orlando Sanchez, Jr. (OJ)
President, Aeronautics
Orlando Sanchez, Jr (OJ)., is the president of Aeronautics for Lockheed Martin Corporation. Aeronautics is a more than $30 billion enterprise employing more than 35,000 people.
The Aeronautics portfolio delivers Air Power Solutions featuring 5th Generation tactical aircraft; air mobility; uncrewed and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms; advanced development programs; and modernization and sustainment services supporting all U.S. military services and dozens of allied customers around the world. The portfolio includes the F-35, F-22, F-16 and C-130, as well as the Advanced Development Programs organization, also known as the Skunk Works®.
Previously, Sanchez was the vice president and general manager of Skunk Works. In this role, Sanchez drove advanced technology development and integration across a diverse set of primarily classified military programs and pursuits tied to Skunk Works’ guiding philosophy of Quick, Quiet, Quality. He previously led Lockheed Martin’s Integrated Fighter Group, successfully ushering in a new era of the Fighting Falcon with the F-16 Block 70 and also partnering with the U.S. Air Force to sustain and enhance the F-22 for current and future deterrence. OJ has deep industry experience with prior leadership roles in business development, operations, program management and has been a leader in key corporate initiatives underpinning our 21st Century Security strategy, including Golden Dome, integrated air and missile defense, Joint All-Domain Command and Control, and air and space integration.
Sanchez joined Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in 2014 after serving as an officer and senior leader in the U.S. Air Force with roles across the globe and Joint Forces. During his U.S. Air Force career, he served as combat fighter pilot with operational and program leadership roles. Among other assignments, he led the F-22 initial operational test team and the U.S. Air Force declaration of F-22 Initial Operational Capability in 2005. He went on to lead the U.S. Air Force’s 5th Generation transformation through tactics development and leadership roles at the Air Force squadron and wing levels. He is a command pilot with more than 2,100 flight hours in the F-22 and other fighter and trainer aircraft.
Sanchez holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the U.S. Air Force Academy, a master’s degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and a master’s degree in Business Administration from the Naval Post Graduate School. He is also an Ancien of the NATO Defense College in Rome, Italy, playing a key role in promoting the NATO alliance.
May 2026