Lockheed Martin and Diehl Defence announced a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing maritime air defense capabilities for surface vessels. The agreement was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on March 12, 2024, during the Berlin Security Conference. The collaboration seeks to merge Diehl’s advanced guided missile and ground-based air defense systems, such as the IRIS-T family, with Lockheed’s integrated air and missile defense (IAMD) technologies, including the Aegis Weapon System and MK41 Vertical Launch System (VLS).
The MoU marks the beginning of what both companies describe as a promising venture. A spokesperson for Diehl noted that they are in the initial stages of defining specific next steps. The partnership is currently exploring two separate projects to launch their cooperation, although specific details remain undisclosed. They emphasized the significant market potential for naval air defense systems, stating, “We are addressing a significant market of several potential customers.”
Lockheed Martin’s Chief Executive and Vice President for Europe, Dennis Goge, characterized the collaboration as a mutually beneficial arrangement. He stated, “I would argue for Diehl to get into the Aegis Weapon System and into the Mk41 and Mk70 vertical launchers, that’s a big deal for them. On the other hand, it’s good for us, because we diversify the portfolio there.”
The partnership may also appeal to the German military, which has shown interest in these advanced systems. The German Navy is already utilizing the IRIS-T in its maritime operations, integrating the IRIS-T SLM surface-to-air missiles on its F125 frigate, the Baden-Württemberg. Goge highlighted the interoperability advantages of combining these systems: “They’re using [IRIS-T] in the IAMD environment, all the way through and across the board. So it just makes sense, also from an interoperability point of view.”
The MoU was signed by Helmut Rauch, CEO of Diehl Defence, and Chandra Marshall, Vice President at Lockheed Martin. Rauch expressed pride in the collaboration, stating, “With Diehl Defence and Lockheed Martin linking up their expertise and capabilities, navies around the globe can benefit from the optimum for air defense systems on their surface weapon vessels.” Marshall added, “This strategic collaboration continues to showcase the scalability and increased capacity of our programs, which bring next-generation IAMD capability and 21st-century security worldwide.”
As global security dynamics evolve, this partnership positions both Lockheed Martin and Diehl Defence to play significant roles in the future of maritime air defense. Their commitment to developing integrated solutions may address the rising demand for advanced defense capabilities among navies worldwide.
