Lockheed Martin has finalized industrial cooperation agreements as part of an ongoing F-35 Lightning II combat aircraft sale with the Czech Republic.
The milestone includes 11 frameworks that enable the American contractor to work with domestic companies in the Central European country, supporting its local industrial base throughout the program.
The move followed a separate signing ceremony with Zlín-based manufacturing company Ray Services, set to support Lockheed in producing wire harnesses for the incoming fleet.
“By integrating Czech talent into the global F-35 supply chain through partners like Ray Service, we are ensuring American innovation and Czech expertise work hand-in-hand,” said Nicholas Merrick, US Ambassador to the Czech Republic.
“This collaboration underscores our ‘ironclad’ commitment to collective security.”
Production by 2027
The Czech Republic signed a memorandum of understanding with the US government to procure 24 F-35s in 2024.
Prague first revealed its intent to adopt the fleet in 2023 as part of its strategy to replace 14 Swedish-made Gripen fighter jets that are scheduled for decommissioning before 2030.
For the duration of the initiative, Lockheed will work with 12 Czech industry partners and academic institutions to fulfill the order.
The effort is expected to support jobs for the next five to six decades, with opportunities across skills transfer, supply chain management, sustainment, and modernization.
Production will commence in 2027.
“As agreed at the Hague Summit, meeting our capability targets and defense spending commitments is essential to maintaining a strong NATO,” Merrick stated.
“When we invest in 5th Generation capabilities, we are making a generational investment in the deterrence that keeps our alliance prepared for any challenge.”
