Lockheed Martin Corporation or Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation: Who Invests More in Innovation?

Innovation Investment: A Tale of Two Giants

In the competitive world of aerospace and transportation, innovation is key. Lockheed Martin Corporation and Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation (Wabtec) are two industry leaders that have consistently invested in research and development (R&D) to stay ahead. From 2014 to 2023, Lockheed Martin has shown a robust commitment to innovation, with R&D expenses growing by approximately 105%, peaking in 2022. In contrast, Wabtec's R&D investment, while significant, has been more modest, increasing by about 250% over the same period, yet still trailing behind Lockheed Martin in absolute terms.

Lockheed Martin's R&D spending in 2022 was nearly eight times that of Wabtec, highlighting its strategic focus on technological advancement. However, Wabtec's consistent growth in R&D investment underscores its dedication to innovation in the rail industry. As we look to the future, these investments will likely shape the trajectory of both companies in their respective fields.