At the Farnborough Airshow, Lockheed Martin and ThalesRaytheonSystems confirmed that they would combine forces to provide NATO with advanced Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) capability.
The proliferation of ballistic missile technology has seen NATO redouble its efforts to better protect European member states, which Western leaders say falls under the Alliance’s remit.
The programme involves the upgrade, test and integration of NATO’s command and control systems and underlying communication network to enable effective information exchanges between various NATO and national missile defence systems.
In accordance with the teaming agreement, ThalesRaytheonSystems will act as prime contractor and system integrator, combining operational experience with components from different partners.
Lockheed Martin will developed the ballistic missile defence planning capability through its Defence Design System. Additionally, both Lockheed Martin and Raytheon bring significant experience as prime contractors for the United States’ ballistic missile defence capability.
“Lockheed Martin delivered the Defence Design System for NATO’s BMD planning capability. We will leverage that success, as well as our expertise in command and control, weapon system development and systems integration to achieve the Alliance goals,” said Dr Rob Smith, Vice President of C4ISR for Lockheed Martin’s Rotary and Mission Systems.
Dave Gulla, Vice President of Mission Systems and Solutions at Raytheon added: “Our companies are committed to providing the best technical and program talent available to provide a low risk and operationally relevant NATO BMD capability. We are confident that this teaming framework creates the best value for NATO and ensures delivery of a timely and effective territorial BMD capability.”
Thomas Got, Vice President in charge the air operations and weapons systems at Thales concluded: “The partnership between our companies in the area of tactical ballistic missiles defence has already yielded results. Those new operational command and control capabilities will enhance the protection of NATO’s populations, territory and forces against the threats posed by ballistic missiles.”
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