Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) has secured a contract through Wright-Patterson Air Force Base to supply the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) with advanced C-130J training devices and upgrades.
Announced on Wednesday, this deal underscores the company’s ongoing collaboration with the RAAF and aims to enhance their training capabilities significantly.
Lockheed Martin Strengthens Ties With Australia
The delivery of these devices is scheduled to commence in 2029.
The package includes two Weapon Systems Trainers and an Enhanced Integrated Cockpit Systems Trainer, among other critical training tools.
This initiative is part of the RAAF's broader strategy to prepare its aircrews effectively for operational missions.
The training devices will incorporate state-of-the-art graphics and high-fidelity cockpit replication, designed to mirror the operational C-130J aircraft.
These tools are intended to be compatible with the RAAF's forthcoming C-130J-30 acquisitions, facilitating the quick integration of new capabilities.
Key Insights On RAAF’s Tactical Airlift Expansion
The RAAF has been a pioneer in C-130 operations since 1958 and currently operates a fleet of 12 C-130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft.
In a move to expand its tactical airlift capacity, Australia exercised an option in July 2023 to acquire 20 new C-130J-30 aircraft, with the first expected to arrive in 2028.
This acquisition will bolster the RAAFs fleet, supporting No. 37 Squadron at RAAF Base Richmond. The C-130J Super Hercules is renowned globally for tactical airlift operations, serving 28 operators across 25 countries.
Why This Matters
Lockheed Martin emphasizes that the new training devices will prepare Australian aircrews to master the C-130J from the outset.
Todd Morar, vice president of Air and Commercial Systems at Lockheed Martin, highlighted the company’s expertise as the original manufacturer, ensuring the delivery of authentic and mission-ready training tools.
Peter Ashworth, Lockheed Martin Australia’s Director of Global Training Systems, stated that the focus is on equipping a mission-ready future force by leveraging advanced technologies. This approach aims to reduce risk and cost while enhancing capabilities, giving the RAAF a strategic edge.
LMT Price Action: Lockheed Martin shares were up 0.61% at $653.79 during premarket trading on Thursday. The stock is trading near its 52-week high of $660.55, according to Benzinga Pro data.
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