Lockheed, Germany’s Diehl team up to combine maritime air defense tech
A Lockheed Martin exec described the new partnership as a “win-win” for both companies and, the firms hope, navies around the world.
A Lockheed Martin exec described the new partnership as a “win-win” for both companies and, the firms hope, navies around the world.
Diehl noted that assessment of “various options for increasing production capacity, both at existing sites and possibly other locations,” is already underway.
The German Armed Forces said it could neither confirm nor deny the talks, but said it is "in constant communication with the industry about possible relevant developments in the defense sector."
Prototypes of the new air defense system are due for qualification in 2027 so serial production can start in 2028, according to Germany's military procurement arm BAAINBw.
Switzerland made clear that it will “examine” areas where co-operation can be strengthened, with a plan to specifically address information exchange and training for the US-made Patriot air defense system, of which it ordered five units in June 2021.