Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre, NLR for short, have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance the defense capabilities of the Netherlands, the United States and their allies.
The MOU, signed Thursday in Washington, will serve as a framework for cooperation in initiatives such as military operational analysis, technology road maps and connectivity solutions that support the Dutch industrial base. According to Atherton Carty, vice president of business development at Skunk Works, the agreement provides the company the opportunity to explore new ways for its expertise to address global security challenges while building its longstanding relationship with the Dutch government and industry.
Established in 1919, NLR is a research organization that connects science with the Dutch industry and government to make aerospace safer, more sustainable, and more efficient. Currently, one of its priorities is supporting the implementation of the Dutch Ministry of Defence’s 2035 vision, which focuses on transforming the ministry into a “smart and technologically advanced organization.”
“As global geopolitical unrest intensifies, we recognize the importance of working with allied organizations to drive innovation and ensure our national safety and security, as well as that of our allies,” NLR CEO Michel Peters said in a statement. “This MOU underlines our commitment to collaboration and innovation in the pursuit of advanced defense capabilities.”
This collaboration follows Lockheed Martin’s recent deals with Amsterdam, which include a $1.06 billion order for extended-range joint air-to-surface standoff and Hellfire missiles and a $224 million contract for two Patriot missile launchers and associated equipment. The Royal Netherlands Air Force also recently declared full operational capability for its fleet of Lockheed’s F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, replacing the aging F-16 Fighting Falcons.