Lockheed Martin and Diehl Defence have officially formed a partnership to enhance maritime air defense capabilities for surface vessels. This collaboration was solidified with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on October 24, 2023, during the Berlin Security Conference. The two defense companies aim to integrate Diehl’s guided missile systems, including the IRIS-T family of air defenses, with Lockheed’s advanced integrated air and missile defense (IAMD) systems, such as the Aegis Weapon System and the MK41 Vertical Launch System.
This partnership is seen as a strategic opportunity to attract naval forces globally. According to a spokesperson for Diehl, the MoU represents a starting point for collaboration, with plans to define the next steps soon. The spokesperson emphasized that the partnership is exploring two distinct projects to initiate their cooperation, although specific details remain undisclosed.
Lockheed Martin’s Chief Executive and Vice President for Europe, Dennis Goge, characterized the collaboration as mutually beneficial. 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.” Goge noted that this partnership diversifies Lockheed’s offerings, enhancing its portfolio in maritime defense.
The potential for the German military to become a launch customer for this collaboration was highlighted. The German Navy currently utilizes the IRIS-T system, particularly in maritime settings, integrating IRIS-T SLM surface-to-air missiles on its F125 frigate, the Baden-Württemberg. Goge pointed out, “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 stated, “With Diehl Defence and Lockheed Martin linking up their expertise and capabilities, navies around the globe can benefit from the optimum air defense systems for their surface weapon vessels.” He expressed pride in deepening collaboration in guided missiles and air defense applications.
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.” With defense needs evolving, this partnership aims to position both companies at the forefront of maritime air defense technology, potentially reshaping naval capabilities across the globe.
