Lockheed Martin Aims to Cultivate Filipino Talent, Stimulate Job Growth and Advance Local Defense Sector with Industrial Collaboration Proposal

MANILA, Philippines, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin has outlined robust industrial collaboration projects for the Philippines, aimed at strengthening its Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept while investing in Filipino talent, technical training, and local industry partnerships.

As part of the F-16 Block 70 package, Lockheed Martin will support the country's Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) by training Filipino technicians, enabling in-country maintenance, and building long-term pathways for aerospace careers through partnerships with universities and industry.

"Lockheed Martin's partnership with the Philippines extends beyond providing military capability," said Aimee Burnett, vice president of business development for the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin. "As we collaborate with the local industry, we aim to deliver social and economic value by cultivating talent, creating jobs and driving innovation that advances the domestic defense sector and supports holistic progress."

"In short, Lockheed Martin is committed to building a long-term partnership that benefits the Philippines and its people," Burnett added.

Lockheed Martin has proposed stand-up of several in-country Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul capabilities in the Philippines to support the F-16 and C-130. As part of this effort, Lockheed Martin would provide core technologies and equipment to local industrial partners to enable them to directly repair Philippine Air Force aircraft, leading to greater self-reliance in aerospace sustainment as well as job creation and skills-building opportunities for the Philippines workforce.

Lockheed Martin has also proposed the establishment of an Innovation Center in the Philippines, which will serve as the focal point for research and development collaboration, technology transfer and investment. Building upon successful models deployed over the last decade in the United Arab Emirates, Australia and elsewhere, Lockheed Martin would partner with local universities, industries and government partners to provide training programs, allocate funding for research, and create Philippine-owned capabilities in emerging technology sectors.

The Lockheed Martin Innovation Center will enable a pipeline of new technologies, skilled workers and empowered entrepreneurs who can drive future innovation and growth in the Philippines.

"With the F-16 Block 70, Lockheed Martin is confident it can help the Philippines build a sustainable airpower ecosystem, driven by Filipino talent and supported by local industry, while delivering the advanced capabilities needed to address its most pressing defense requirements," Burnett said.

For additional information, visit our website: https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-ph/index.html 

About Lockheed Martin  
Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at Lockheedmartin.com.

SOURCE Lockheed Martin Aeronautics