Lockheed Martin announced on July 17, 2024, a strategic initiative to deliver substantial economic value to Thailand through a comprehensive industrial participation proposal. This “offset” proposal is closely tied to the Thai government’s evaluation of the F-16 Block 70/72 for its future fighter program.
The F-16 Block 70/72 proposal includes several ambitious projects designed to enhance Thailand’s capabilities across various sectors. Key initiatives involve the establishment of a Research and Development Center aimed at advancing manufacturing and agriculture, advanced aerospace engineering training for Thai industry partners and the Royal Thai Air Force, and extensive manufacturing workforce development programs. Additional technical assistance will support an advanced data link upgrade to ensure interoperability with the existing fleet, alongside advanced fighter maintenance training for the Royal Thai Air Force. Furthermore, Lockheed Martin plans to explore supply chain opportunities for Thai industries and foster sustainment capabilities within the country.
“Lockheed Martin values our 40-year partnership and history with Thailand and the Royal Thai Air Force, and we are confident the F-16 Block 70/72 will complement its existing F-16 fleet,” said Aimee Burnett, Vice President of Business Development for the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin.
“The F-16 Block 70/72 will deliver the advanced 21st Century Security® capabilities and performance needed to address Thailand’s most pressing defense requirements.”
Burnett told The Pattaya News: “Lockheed Martin brings decades of experience delivering value to local industries and workforces, including a successful history of executed offset projects with Thai industry partners and the Royal Thai Air Force. We are excited to bring that same mindset to the F-16 Block 70/72 program.”
