IN a strategic move to bolster operational excellence and evolution of the aerospace and defense (A&D) industry in the Philippines, Lockheed Martin has significantly augmented its presence in the country by growing operations, partnering with local industry, and establishing an in-country base in Metro Manila.

These moves build on the almost 60-year relationship that Lockheed Martin has with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). By providing seminal capabilities that span air, land, sea and space, Lockheed Martin seeks to further contribute to the protection of the archipelago and assist in critical humanitarian, security and natural disaster missions. William Blair, vice president and regional executive for Asia and India at Lockheed Martin, says: 'Lockheed Martin's growth in the Philippines is a continuation of our long-standing commitment to supporting the nation's strategic security. Our renewed commitment with amplified in-country presence focuses on developing integrated solutions that enable greater readiness and deterrence, the realization of the AFP's modernization plan, and further supports the treaty alliance between the Philippines and the United States of America.'