Taiwan’s Aerospace Industrial Development Corp. and U.S. defense firm Lockheed Martin Corp. concluded a memorandum of understanding on F-16 aircraft maintenance Dec. 17 in Taichung City.
The pact was inked by AIDC Chairman Hu Kai-hung and Randy Howard, director of F-16/F-22 business development for Lockheed Martin, at the headquarters of the state-backed outfit in the central Taiwan metropolis.
Premier Su Tseng-chang, on hand for the signing, said the agreement represents a win for both companies, and will further advance Taiwan’s indigenous defense capabilities.
It is also a logical step for both sides given Taiwan’s recent order from the U.S. of 66 F-16 Block 70 aircraft, Su said, adding that the strategic alliance will greatly enhance local capacity for servicing the fighter jet while bolstering development of related industries and talents.
Echoing Su’s remarks, Hu said AIDC possesses a raft of authorizations and special certifications to produce components and parts for Lockheed Martin. The company also has more than 800 employees qualified to carry out functional upgrades for F-16s, he added.
As Lockheed Martin’s closest business partner in Taiwan, Hu said, AIDC will ensure all requisite pieces are in place to transform the country into a world-class center for F-16 maintenance.
Defense is a core component of the five-plus-two innovative industries initiative. The national development strategy encompasses other high-growth sectors of biotech and pharmaceuticals, green energy, smart machinery and Internet of Things, as well as promotion of the circular economy and a new paradigm for agricultural development. (SFC-E)
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