Lockheed Martin has proposed to support Thailand in improving its manufacturing workforce and aerospace engineering capabilities should the country obtain the F-16 Block 70/72. Bangkok had detailed in March its procurement plans over the next decade, with the latest Lockheed iteration and Saab’s Gripen emerging as top contenders.
On Monday, the defense contractor said it presented to the Thai government an industrial participation proposal detailing its plan to establish a research and development facility, provide advanced training on fighter maintenance for the Royal Thai Air Force, and extend aerospace engineering and technical assistance for industry partners to ensure interoperability with RTAF’s existing fleet.
Aimee Burnett, vice president of business development at Lockheed Martin’s Integrated Fighter Group, said the offset program would continue the company’s long-standing collaboration with the Thai government and RTAF. She added that with the F-16 Block 70/72, Lockheed ensures that Thailand will have access to advanced capabilities that meet its defense requirements.
According to the International Trade Administration, Thailand is the second largest Southeast Asian economy. It has been allocating upwards of $5 billion in defense spending since the global pandemic, with most investments going to upgrades and modernization efforts.