Lockheed Martin has outlined a $1.8 billion industrial and social collaboration package for Peru as part of its proposal to supply F-16 Block 70 fighter aircraft, covering unmanned aircraft production, engineering training, research and expansion of domestic aerospace maintenance capabilities, according to the company.
Lockheed Martin announced the package in Lima on 26 August, saying the offer combines opportunities for co-production of defence equipment and advanced unmanned aircraft systems with specialist engineering training and a new space academy curriculum. The company said the programme would also seek to integrate Peruvian firms into its global supply chain as part of the wider F-16 proposal.
Tara Lause, vice president of business development for Lockheed Martin’s Integrated Fighter Group, said: “Lockheed Martin is committed to building a long-term partnership that benefits Peru and its people, while strengthening its defense capabilities. As we collaborate with the local industry, we aim to deliver tangible, high-value opportunities that build a skilled workforce, enable knowledge transfer and create lasting economic impact on both sides of the partnership.”
Projects proposed alongside the aircraft include domestic assembly of an unmanned aerospace vehicle intended for the Latin American market, the establishment of joint research hubs and an Unmanned Aircraft System Technical Institute, and advanced engineering and fighter-maintenance courses. Lockheed Martin also said the package would expand Peru’s maintenance, repair and overhaul footprint, with the company presenting the measures as part of a broader effort to develop aerospace manufacturing and technical skills within the country.
The unmanned aircraft element would involve assembly in Peru for potential customers elsewhere in Latin America, while the proposed research and training initiatives would cover technical knowledge associated with aerospace engineering and unmanned systems. Lockheed Martin said the package is intended to support the internationalisation of Peruvian industry and provide opportunities for local companies to participate in its wider supply chain.
Lause said: “Lockheed Martin has proven industrial partnerships that build a skilled workforce, strengthen allied defense industrial bases, and drive economic growth.” She added: “With the F-16 Block 70, Peru is not just procuring the most advanced and capable fourth generation fighter – it is creating enduring alliances, military cooperation strength and industrial collaboration opportunities with the United States and many other countries.”
The industrial offer accompanies Lockheed Martin’s campaign to supply Peru with the latest production version of the F-16. The company says more than 2,800 F-16 aircraft are currently operating across 29 countries. Block 70 incorporates updated radar, avionics and weapons systems, with Lockheed Martin also citing its extended structural service life and the established international support network surrounding the F-16 fleet.
