The partnership intends to serve both new and legacy F-16 operators, providing advanced maintenance and logistics support from a strategically located and technically proficient centre. The agreement builds on LOTN’s ongoing work with the Slovak Air Force’s F-16 Block 70 fleet, a next-generation variant of the aircraft.
“This initiative is a direct result of LOTN’s participation in the life cycle support of the Slovakian Air Force’s new generation F-16 Block 70 fleet,” said Juraj Laus, Chairman and CEO of LOTN. “Kongsberg is a very highly regarded player in this industry; teaming with them will allow us to expand our offering of services and capabilities which will benefit the Slovak Air Force and other NATO and Allied operators as well,” he added.
Kongsberg brings over four decades of experience in F-16 support, accumulated through its long-standing relationship with the Norwegian Air Force. “The Norwegian Air Force’s transition from the F-16 to the F-35 has allowed KAMS the ability to apply our 40 years of F-16 MRO experience to opportunities outside of Norway,” said André Jægtvik, President of Kongsberg Aviation Maintenance Services.
Jægtvik highlighted the strengths of both companies in the partnership, stating, “Our designation as a Lockheed Martin approved Falcon Service Center for F-16s up to Block 52 combined with LOTN’s experienced labour force, modern infrastructure and Block 70 capability will provide a legitimate and strategically located option for F-16 support and services.”
LOTN is a state-owned Slovak company with a 75-year history in aircraft maintenance, including experience with various military platforms such as the Aero L-39, LET 410, and Mi-17 helicopters. The company’s facility includes over 150,000 square feet of hangar and office space, along with a 2,000-metre runway and certified control tower.
Kongsberg Aviation Maintenance Services, part of the Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace group, plays a key role in supporting Norway’s air defence operations and provides maintenance services for the Royal Norwegian Air Force’s F-35A fleet. Its expertise and certification as a Lockheed Martin service centre position it as a valuable partner in expanding F-16 support capacity across Europe.
