Lockheed Martin Announces New Industrial Collaboration Project with SMU for Philippines' Multi Role Fighter Program

Rhea-AI Summary

Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) has announced an expansion of its industrial collaboration package for the Philippines' Multi Role Fighter program, featuring a strategic partnership with Southern Methodist University (SMU). The initiative, tied to LMT's F-16 Block 70 fighter jet offering, focuses on digital innovation and workforce development.

The partnership will establish a world-class research lab and leverage SMU's Center for Digital and Human-Augmented Manufacturing and Deason Innovation Gym. Key focus areas include digital modeling, simulations, virtual/augmented reality, robotics, automation, and AI. The collaboration aims to enhance Philippines' research capabilities while supporting the country's Self-Reliant Defense Posture.

Insights

Defense Industry Analyst

Lockheed Martin's Philippines F-16 package now includes SMU partnership for technology transfer and workforce development, strengthening its competitive position.

Lockheed Martin's expanded industrial collaboration package for the Philippines represents a strategic enhancement to its F-16 Block 70 offer in the competitive Multi Role Fighter program. By partnering with Southern Methodist University, Lockheed is addressing the critical technology transfer and industrial participation components that often determine success in international defense procurements.

The collaboration focuses on digital innovation, intellectual property creation, and workforce development—all key elements that align with the Philippines' Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) initiative. This approach demonstrates Lockheed's understanding that modern defense sales require more than just hardware; they demand comprehensive ecosystem development for the purchasing nation.

The investment in research capabilities and academic partnerships serves dual purposes: it enhances Lockheed's value proposition against competitors like Saab's Gripen and potentially Korea's FA-50, while simultaneously creating long-term ties to Philippine industry and academia. The focus on emerging technologies including digital modeling, simulations, virtual/augmented reality, robotics, automation, and AI connects this defense procurement to broader industrial development goals.

This announcement suggests Lockheed Martin is in the final competitive stages of the Philippines fighter program and is strengthening its offset package—the industrial benefits beyond the aircraft themselves—which typically represents 30-100% of the contract value in international defense sales. The F-16 Block 70 represents the most advanced version of a proven platform with over 4,500 aircraft delivered globally, offering a lower-risk option compared to newer competitors while still providing advanced capabilities.

Lockheed Martin and Southern Methodist University to drive digital innovation, intellectual property creation, and workforce development in partnership with Philippine universities

MANILA, Philippines, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] is expanding its industrial collaboration package for the Philippines as part of its F-16 Block 70 solution for the country's Multi Role Fighter program. The enhanced offer includes a strategic partnership with Southern Methodist University (SMU) to drive digital innovation, intellectual property creation, and workforce development with Philippine universities and industry.

The partnership will provide a comprehensive platform for technology and knowledge transfer, including funding for business incubation, government initiatives, and academic programs. A world-class research lab and training space will be established, enabling Filipino professionals to develop innovative solutions and prototypes that can be applied in various industries.

"We are committed to investing in the development of new capabilities and intellectual properties in close collaboration with leading universities and companies in the Philippines," said Jess Koloini, Lockheed Martin F-16 Business Development. "This partnership will not only support the country's Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) but also create a lasting impact on the Filipino workforce, driving economic growth and prosperity."

The partnership will leverage the expertise of SMU's Center for Digital and Human-Augmented Manufacturing (CDHAM) and Deason Innovation Gym (DIG) to significantly enhance the Philippines' research and development capacity in digital modeling, simulations, virtual and augmented reality, robotics, automation and Artificial Intelligence.

Key components of the partnership include:

• Access to state-of-the-art innovation tools and equipment located at SMU, enabling Filipino professionals to develop innovative solutions and prototypes
• Funding for business incubation, government initiatives, and academic programs
• Establishment of a world-class research lab and training space
• Collaboration with leading universities and companies in the Philippines to develop new capabilities and intellectual properties

"This partnership is an investment in the strength of the Filipino workforce," said Dr. Ben Zoghi, Southern Methodist University Associate Dean for Advanced Studies and Industry Partnerships. "These projects will significantly boost the Philippines' academia and industry, enabling them to leverage digital innovation technologies to drive economic growth and global industrial competitiveness."

The F-16 Block 70 is the most advanced version of the F-16 fighter jet, offering unparalleled capabilities and performance. Lockheed Martin's industrial collaboration package is designed to support the Philippines' economic development and SRDP goals, while also enhancing the country's security capabilities.

For additional information, visit our website: https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-ph/index.html 

About Lockheed Martin 

Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21^st Century Security^® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at lockheedmartin.com.

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SOURCE Lockheed Martin Aeronautics

FAQ

What is Lockheed Martin's new collaboration with SMU for the Philippines?

Lockheed Martin is partnering with Southern Methodist University to establish a research lab and training space in the Philippines, focusing on digital innovation and workforce development as part of its F-16 Block 70 fighter program offering.

What technologies will be developed through the LMT-SMU partnership in Philippines?

The partnership will focus on digital modeling, simulations, virtual/augmented reality, robotics, automation, and Artificial Intelligence through SMU's Center for Digital and Human-Augmented Manufacturing.

How will Filipino professionals benefit from the Lockheed Martin-SMU collaboration?

Filipino professionals will gain access to state-of-the-art innovation tools, funding for business incubation, academic programs, and opportunities to develop innovative solutions and prototypes in a world-class research lab.

What is the purpose of Lockheed Martin's industrial collaboration package in Philippines?

The collaboration package aims to support Philippines' Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP), enhance local research capabilities, drive economic growth, and strengthen the country's security capabilities through the F-16 Block 70 program.