Lockheed Martin, one of the largest companies in the aerospace, military support, security, and technologies industry, is set to make a significant impact at the inaugural Egypt International Airshow (EIAS) 2024. With decades of experience in the region, Lockheed Martin is excited to showcase its cutting-edge innovations and strengthen its partnerships in North Africa.

Why did Lockheed Martin choose to exhibit at the inaugural EIAS?

"Lockheed Martin is proud to be a platinum sponsor of the inaugural Egypt International Airshow (EIAS). Our decision to exhibit at EIAS underscores our commitment to strengthening our long-standing partnership with Egypt and expanding our footprint in North Africa. This event provides a unique platform to showcase our cutting-edge technologies and innovative defence solutions that support critical missions and enhance regional security. At EIAS, our engagement with our partners allows us to identify new opportunities for collaboration, strengthen alliances, and reaffirm our commitment to driving technological advancements in the aerospace and defence industries that will shape the future of global security."

What opportunities do you see in the Egyptian/African/Middle Eastern aerospace market?

"The aerospace market in Egypt and North Africa holds immense potential for growth and development. Lockheed Martin acknowledges the potential to enhance regional security, stimulate economic growth, and promote technological innovation through strategic partnerships. Our primary focus areas are defence systems, space exploration, and aviation infrastructure, where we see substantial opportunities for impact. Our partnerships are built on three pillars: knowledge transfer, industry localisation, and human capital development. This approach aligns seamlessly with the ambitions of these regions, allowing us to contribute to the advancement of local capabilities and promoting self-reliance and innovation in the defence and aerospace sector.

Lockheed Martin has been in the Middle East for nearly six decades. Our presence in the region has moved beyond defence-only contracts. It now includes technical support, advanced STEM internship and training programs, and scholarship opportunities. In Egypt, where we are supporting Egypt Vision 2030, Lockheed Martin is building local capabilities and enhancing the country’s self-reliance and resilience in defence. Lockheed Martin is working closely with Egyptian partners in education, localisation, and space cooperation. We are supporting the American University in Cairo (AUC) through scholarships for engineering students, aligning with Egypt's objective of building a knowledge-based economy. These efforts aim to nurture the next generation of Middle Eastern engineers and technologists, ensuring a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals for the defence industry.

In parallel, Lockheed Martin’s successful localisation of F-16 production in Egypt has generated thousands of jobs and established a robust supply chain involving hundreds of local suppliers. This strategy not only fuels economic growth but also reinforces Egypt's industrial base, a crucial element of Vision 2030.

Looking forward, Lockheed Martin is exploring opportunities for space cooperation and how to accelerate Egypt's space program. By leveraging our expertise in satellite technology and launch systems, Lockheed Martin can significantly contribute to Egypt's technological advancement and economic diversification."

How do you believe participating in EIAS will help expand your presence and network within Egypt, Africa, and the Middle East?

"Lockheed Martin has been operating in the region since 1965, and participating in EIAS will provide Lockheed Martin with a valuable opportunity to strengthen our relationships with existing partners and forge new connections across Egypt, Africa, and the Middle East. The event will allow us to engage directly with government officials, military leaders, and industry experts, facilitating meaningful dialogues and collaborations. By showcasing our advanced technologies and innovative solutions, such as our F-16s, C-130s and Black Hawks, we aim to demonstrate our commitment to supporting the region's defence and security needs. EIAS will also serve as a platform to highlight our efforts in STEM education, local talent development, and our broader contributions to the region's economic and technological progress."

What are you most excited about regarding the launch of EIAS in Egypt?

"We are particularly excited about the launch of EIAS in Egypt as it represents a significant milestone in the region's aerospace and defence landscape. The event provides a unique opportunity to highlight Egypt's strategic importance as a hub for aerospace, fostering innovation and promoting collaboration. We are eager to showcase our latest technologies and solutions that support Egypt's Vision 2030 modernisation efforts and contribute to regional security. Additionally, we look forward to engaging with the dynamic and diverse audience that EIAS will attract, including top-tier decision-makers, industry leaders, and innovators. The event's emphasis on sustainability, digitalisation, and global connectivity aligns with our vision for 21st-century security, making EIAS a perfect platform for us to share our expertise and vision."

What advice would you give to other international companies considering exhibiting at EIAS?

"This EIAS is a landmark gathering that will propel significant advancements in the aerospace and defence sectors across Egypt and the wider region. By participating, companies can gain invaluable insights into regional market trends, forge strategic partnerships, and present their innovations to a highly influential audience. It's also an excellent platform for networking and building relationships with key stakeholders shaping the industry's future.

Egypt’s defence budget, currently around $5.2 billion, is expected to grow at a CAGR of more than 3% from 2025 to 2029. Lockheed Martin’s participation aims to showcase our latest innovations, establish strategic partnerships, and contribute to the growth and transformation of the aerospace landscape in the region."

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