Lockheed Martin has expanded its industrial collaboration package for the Philippines in line with its F-16 Block 70 solution for the country’s Multi Role Fighter programme. The updated offer includes a strategic partnership with Southern Methodist University (SMU) to drive digital innovation, intellectual property creation and workforce development with Philippine universities and industry.

The arrangement will provide a platform for technology and knowledge transfer, including funding for business incubation, government initiatives and academic programmes. A research lab and training space will be established, enabling Filipino professionals to create solutions and prototypes for various sectors.

“We are committed to investing in the development of new capabilities and intellectual properties in close collaboration with leading universities and companies in the Philippines,” says Jess Koloini, Lockheed Martin F-16 business development. “This partnership will not only support the country’s Self-Reliant Defence Posture (SRDP) but also create a lasting impact on the Filipino workforce, driving economic growth and prosperity.”

The partnership will use SMU’s Center for Digital and Human-Augmented Manufacturing and Deason Innovation Gym to strengthen research and development in digital modelling, simulations, virtual and augmented reality, robotics, automation and Artificial Intelligence.

“This partnership is an investment in the strength of the Filipino workforce,” says Dr Ben Zoghi, Southern Methodist University associate dean for advanced studies and industry partnerships. “These projects will significantly boost the Philippines’ academia and industry, enabling them to leverage digital innovation technologies to drive economic growth and global industrial competitiveness.”