THAAD localization shows Saudi Arabia's growing manufacturing capabilities
Efforts to localize components of the Terminal High Altitude
Area Defense (THAAD) system align with Saudi Arabia's objectives under the
Saudi Vision 2030 initiative to enhance defense manufacturing capabilities
domestically.
Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE: LMT) has recently
announced the awarding of two critical subcontracts to Saudi Arabian industry
partners, marking a significant progression in the localization of production
for components of the THAAD Weapon System. This initiative is part of a broader
Localization Agreement with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, aimed at bolstering
the country's manufacturing capabilities and reinforcing its defense industry.
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The awarded subcontracts pave the way for the establishment
of a secondary source for specific THAAD system components within Saudi Arabia.
Middle East Propulsion Company (MEPC) in Riyadh and Arabian International
Company (AIC) for Steel in Jeddah have been designated as prime partners for
these projects. These endeavors are further supported by additional
subcontracts to various Saudi industry partners, emphasizing a collaborative
approach to localizing defense manufacturing.
This development follows project approvals by the General
Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) during the 2022 World Defense Show,
signaling strategic intent to localize the production of THAAD interceptor
canisters and THAAD Missile Round Pallets within the Kingdom. Such localization
efforts align with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which seek to develop and
localize military industries, thereby reducing reliance on international
procurement and nurturing domestic capabilities.
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Joseph Rank, Lockheed Martin's chief executive for Saudi
Arabia and Africa, underscored the significance of these localization efforts,
stating, "Our localization endeavors in the Kingdom are advancing, and
we're immensely proud to witness MEPC, AIC Steel, and other Saudi partners
stepping up to engage in the manufacturing and support of key THAAD Weapon
System components. This represents a significant milestone." Rank further
emphasized the dual benefits of enhancing regional security and fostering
economic prosperity through job creation and the development of local
industries, in alignment with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
Source: https://www.spacewar.com/
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