Lockheed Martin Unveils Groundbreaking Partnership with SMU to Enhance the Philippines’ Multi-Role Fighter Initiative
Lockheed Martin is broadening its industrial collaboration offering for the Philippines as part of its F-16 Block 70 proposal for the nation’s Multi Role Fighter initiative. The upgraded proposition includes a strategic alliance with Southern Methodist University (SMU) to promote digital advancement, intellectual property development, and workforce training alongside Philippine universities and industries.
The collaboration will create an extensive platform for technology and knowledge exchange, comprising funding for business incubation, governmental initiatives, and educational programs. A premier research laboratory and training facility will be created, empowering Filipino professionals to devise innovative solutions and prototypes applicable across diverse sectors.
“We are dedicated to investing in the cultivation of new abilities and intellectual properties in close partnership with top universities and organizations in the Philippines,” stated Jess Koloini, Lockheed Martin F-16 Business Development. “This collaboration will not only bolster the country’s Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) but also leave a significant impact on the Filipino workforce, fostering economic advancement and prosperity.”
This partnership will utilize the proficiency of SMU’s Center for Digital and Human-Augmented Manufacturing (CDHAM) and Deason Innovation Gym (DIG) to considerably boost the Philippines’ research and development capabilities in digital modeling, simulations, virtual and augmented reality, robotics, automation, and Artificial Intelligence.
Principal aspects of the partnership consist of:
- Access to cutting-edge innovation instruments and apparatus located at SMU, allowing Filipino professionals to craft innovative solutions and prototypes
- Financial support for business incubation, governmental initiatives, and educational programs
- Creation of a premier research laboratory and training environment
- Collaboration with prominent universities and enterprises in the Philippines to innovate new capabilities and intellectual properties
“This collaboration is an investment in the robustness of the Filipino workforce,” remarked Dr. Ben Zoghi, Southern Methodist University Associate Dean for Advanced Studies and Industry Partnerships. “These initiatives will substantially enhance the Philippines’ academia and industries, empowering them to utilize digital innovation technologies to spur economic growth and worldwide industrial competitiveness.”
The F-16 Block 70 is the most sophisticated variant of the F-16 fighter aircraft, delivering unmatched capabilities and performance. Lockheed Martin’s industrial collaboration offering aims to support the Philippines’ economic development and SRDP objectives while also reinforcing the nation’s security capabilities.
