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Ukraine May Host Lockheed Martin F-16 Repair Facilities Amid Growing Defense Ties
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![Photo of Roman Kohanets]( "Photo of Roman Kohanets")
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US defense contractor Lockheed Martin is exploring cooperation with Ukraine’s state defense conglomerate Ukroboronprom to establish facilities for the maintenance and servicing of F-16 fighter jets on Ukrainian territory, Defence Express reported on September 4. The information is based on discussions that took place on the sidelines of MSPO 2025, a major defense exhibition in Poland, where representatives of Ukroboronprom and Lockheed Martin met to talk about technical support and aviation platform servicing.
According to the report, preliminary discussions have centered on the possibility of localizing technical support, spare parts production, and repair work for the aircraft. Such a move would significantly reduce Ukraine’s dependence on foreign bases for servicing the jets and ensure faster turnaround during combat operations.
Lockheed Martin has not issued an official statement on the matter, but the talks indicate growing interest from the company in deeper industrial cooperation with Ukraine. Ukroboronprom has also refrained from commenting, citing the sensitivity of negotiations.
Analysts note that the localization of maintenance is a critical step as Ukraine prepares to integrate Western-made fighter aircraft into its air force. Several NATO allies — including Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway — have pledged to transfer F-16 jets to Ukraine beginning in 2025. Ensuring the ability to sustain these fleets within the country is seen as essential for long-term operational readiness.
Defense experts argue that building such capacity would also strengthen Ukraine’s domestic defense industry, creating opportunities for technology transfer and the training of local engineers and technicians.
“This is about more than just maintenance — it is about building the foundations for self-sufficiency in advanced aerospace systems,” military analysts told Defence Express.
Earlier, it was reported that Ukraine is offering investment opportunities to Raytheon and is seeking broader strategic collaboration with US defense firms, including joint ventures aimed at streamlining weapons servicing and logistical support for its armed forces.
