Aero Vodochody and Lockheed Martin sign industrial cooperation agreement at IDET 2025

By Defence Industry Europe

The acquisition of 24 Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II aircraft stands as the Czech Republic's most significant military investment to date. The government and parliament's approval was contingent upon substantial participation from local entities. It has now come to light that one such entity, the state-owned aviation company LOM Praha, is in negotiations to establish a training center for F-35 pilots certified by the manufacturer, as well as a simulation center.
Photo: Lockheed Martin.

Czech aerospace company Aero Vodochody Aerospace has signed an industrial cooperation agreement with Lockheed Martin during the IDET international defence and security technology fair in Brno. The agreement forms part of the Czech Republic’s acquisition programme for the F-35 aircraft.

 

The project involves the joint development and production of a next-generation Multi Sensor Reconnaissance Pod made from advanced composite materials. This marks a key collaboration between Aero, Lockheed Martin, and technology partner Collins Aerospace.

“This agreement confirms that the Czech aerospace industry has the know-how and capabilities to participate in the development of cutting-edge technologies for the most advanced aircraft of today,” said Viktor Sotona, President and Chairman of the Board of Aero. He added: “The Multi Sensor Reconnaissance Pod project confirms Aero’s capabilities not only in terms of producing unique technologies in the field of advanced composite structures, but also in terms of significant international cooperation.”

 

 

The agreement is the result of previous discussions between the companies and demonstrates Aero’s preparedness for technical collaboration on global defence initiatives. It also reflects the company’s continued integration into international aerospace supply chains.

Aero Vodochody Aerospace is the Czech Republic’s largest aircraft manufacturer and one of the oldest in the world. The company develops, produces, maintains, and modernises both civil and military aircraft.

 

dei 300 x 600

 

With over 11,000 aircraft produced in its 100-year history, Aero remains a key supplier of military trainer and light combat aircraft, including the widely used L-39 Albatros and the new L-39NG. In the civil sector, Aero collaborates with major manufacturers across multiple programmes, taking part in both production and development.

 

Tags:

Related news & articles

Latest news

Featured