LOM Praha has become the first Czech company to sign an Industrial Cooperation Project Agreement (ICPA) with Lockheed Martin. 

As announced, this agreement marks a crucial step in the Czech Republic’s involvement in the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter programme.

The agreement was officially signed on May 20, 2024 by Jiří Protiva, Director of LOM Praha, and David Baker, Senior Director of F-35 Industrial Participation at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics. The ceremony was attended by Czech Defence Minister, Jana Černochová. 

This collaboration underscores the commitment of both parties to integrate advanced technologies and expertise into the F-35 programme, benefiting the Czech Armed Forces and the broader defence sector.

As part of this agreement, LOM Praha will play a pivotal role in the modernization of the Czech Air Force. The Czech Republic is set to acquire 24 F-35A Lightning II jets, which will significantly enhance its operational capabilities.

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The Industrial Cooperation Project Agreement aims to foster close collaboration between LOM Praha and Lockheed Martin, focusing on several key areas. As such, LOM Praha will gain access to cutting-edge technologies and expertise from Lockheed Martin, which will be crucial in maintaining and supporting the F-35 fleet.

The agreement includes provisions for training Czech engineers and technicians, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle the advanced systems of the F-35. LOM Praha will also become an integral part of the global supply chain for the F-35 programme, contributing to the production and maintenance of these advanced aircraft.

This agreement is expected to open up further opportunities for Czech companies in the international defence market. By participating in the F-35 programme, LOM Praha and other Czech firms will gain valuable experience and recognition, potentially leading to additional contracts and partnerships.

LOM Praha is a state-owned enterprise with a long history of providing maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services for aircraft. 

It remains to be seen whether there will be a corresponding industrial participation of the Greek Defence Industry regarding the purchase program of 20 (+20 option) F-35 aircraft from the Hellenic Air Force at a cost of around 3.7 billion dollars. Negotiations for the program in question are still ongoing and are expected to be completed within 2024.

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