Lockheed Martin Outlines Offsets Proposal for Thailand's F-16 Buy

Lockheed Martin on Monday outlined an offset proposal should Thailand buy its F-16 fighter Jets.

This proposal is driven by the Thai government's evaluation of the F-16 Block 70/72 for its future fighter program.

The F-16 Block 70/72 proposal includes projects such as establishing a Research and Development Center to boost Thailand’s capabilities in manufacturing and agriculture, providing advanced aerospace and maintenance training for Thai industry and the Royal Thai Air Force, developing the manufacturing workforce, offering technical assistance for fleet interoperability, exploring supply chain opportunities, and enhancing sustainment capabilities within Thailand.

"Lockheed Martin values our 40-year partnership with Thailand and the Royal Thai Air Force, and we are confident the F-16 Block 70/72 will complement its existing fleet," said Aimee Burnett, vice president of business development at Lockheed Martin's Integrated Fighter Group. "The F-16 Block 70/72 would deliver the advanced 21st Century Security capabilities needed to address Thailand’s most pressing defense requirements."

Lockheed Martin is in a race with Sweden's Saab which is offering it's Gripen jets to Thailand. Recent reports indicate that the Thai Air Force prefers the JAS-39 Gripen aircraft.