LOCKHEED-MARTIN TO PURCHASE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE WASHINGTON (AP) -- In yet another example of the continuing consolidation of the U.S. defense industry, Lockheed-Martin announced that it and the Federal Government have agreed to an outright purchase of the Department of Defense. The merger, valued at $2 trillion dollars, reflects the continuing agressiveness of Lockeed-Martin in securing a lasting position in the defense business, which has been lately beset by sharp reductions in government spending. "I've always wanted to have my own army," said Norman R. Augustine, president of Lockheed-Martin. "This merger will pave the way for improved margins for our stockholders, and will allow us far greater control over our international market. If we want a contract from now on, we'll just roll out the tanks and take it..." --- Original, from Hughes co-worker Mike Meyer, making fun of the recent mergers and acquisitions in our field of work (with apologies to our colleagues over at L-M.)