Transatlantic cooperation: Lockheed Martin expands defence industry partnerships across Europe

“With demand for our proven capabilities at an all-time high, we’re turning to a network of European industrial partners to build local supply chains and increase integrated deterrence,” said Tim Cahill, President of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “These vital partnerships put our 21st Century Security vision into action, enabling us to deliver cutting-edge capabilities faster and more affordably.”

Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop Germany’s Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System (GMARS). Based on the combat-proven HIMARS, GMARS is a wheeled artillery system offering precision, all-weather, long-range strikes. The system will be produced in Germany and is interoperable with NATO-standard platforms.

In Poland, an agreement with the Ministry of National Defence will lead to the production of 486 HOMAR-A Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS). These systems integrate HIMARS components onto Polish-made Jelcz 6×6 trucks, with plans for local production of tens of thousands of rocket ammunition missiles.

Further expanding missile capabilities in Europe, Poland and the Netherlands signed agreements to purchase Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM-ERs) under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. Lockheed Martin also supports integrating JASSM-ER onto F-35 platforms to enhance interoperability for European operators.

Poland’s defence industry saw additional advancements with the launch of WZL-1’s production line for Patriot PAC-3 MSE launch tubes, facilitated by technology transfers from Lockheed Martin. The U.S. and Poland also signed agreements for 96 AH-64E helicopters equipped with advanced systems, further strengthening regional security.

The MSPO trade show in Kielce witnessed the signing of offset agreements with five Polish companies, supporting high-value projects under the WISLA program. These initiatives will bolster Poland’s defence manufacturing and engineering sectors while enhancing NATO’s regional deterrence.

Romania is now home to Europe’s first HIMARS Support Centre, opened by Lockheed Martin in May. This facility aims to improve operational readiness for Romania’s Land Forces while reducing costs.

Looking to the future, Lockheed Martin is developing the Sniper Networked Targeting Pod for F-16 and Eurofighter jets. This innovative technology will enhance interoperability across NATO forces by enabling instant data sharing for coordinated defence operations.

In the hypersonics domain, Lockheed Martin is exploring collaboration with the UK under the AUKUS trilateral security partnership. The company is prepared to share intellectual property and co-develop sovereign hypersonic capabilities, such as the Mako missile, contingent on U.S. government approval.

Source: Lockheed Martin.