Lockheed Martin looks to upgrade Indonesian F-16 radars, supply surveillance systems

Lockheed Martin is aiming to increase its defence market share in Indonesia by securing deals to upgrade the country's F-16A/B fighter aircraft and supply long-range surveillance radars.

The US-headquartered company said it is proposing to undertake the programmes in collaboration with Indonesian firms PT Dirgantara and PT CMI Teknologi (CMI) as a mark of its commitment to engage with the local defence industry, said James Gribbon, Asia-Pacific regional president for Lockheed Martin at the Indo Defence Expo & Forum.

Both the potential F-16A/B programme and the requirement to acquire long-range surveillance radars are likely to be announced by the Indonesian government by the end of 2012 or 2013. Should Lockheed Martin secure the deals, it will significantly expand the company's relationship with Indonesia.

The company secured earlier this year a USD750 million contract from the US government to refurbish surplus US Air Force F-16C/D fighter aircraft for Indonesia, although this programme is being undertaken in the United States with limited collaboration with Indonesian industry.