Lockheed Martin's vice president for F-16 programs, John Bean, told reporters yesterday at the Dubai International Aerospace Exhibition that the company contributes to the world's modern defense forces by supplying a diverse combination of aircraft to meet the requirements and challenges of a new era.

"Lockheed Martin is proud to be recognized as a world leader in air power projection, including air combat, air mobility, special mission and reconnaissance aircraft, and advanced systems," Bean said. "Our integrated concept of operations and virtual teaming allow us to leverage all company, corporate and partner resources to deliver best value to our customers."

The new F-16E/Fs being built for the UAE possess break-through technological features and advanced systems, exemplifying the evolution of Lockheed Martin aircraft, matching capability with customer need. The F-16E/F Block 60 is the most sophisticated F-16 in history, complete with the specially developed Agile Beam Radar, full-color and moving map cockpit displays, integrated FLIR navigation and targeting systems and the powerful new engine, propelling the Block 60 into the 32,000-lb. thrust category.

As much as the F-16 excels in combat, the C-130J masters the complex task of keeping forces and equipment mobile. This newest version of the popular airlifter incorporates huge advances in avionics and performance. Its two- person flight deck is virtually redesigned, offering digital avionics, heads- up display and simplified interfaces. Combined with greater engine thrust, increased fuel efficiency and improved maintainability, the C-130J is the predominant air mobility leader today.

"The C-130J's increased capabilities augment the effectiveness of the defense force behind it," Bean said. "Its unmatched qualities truly set it apart from its peers."

Transitioning from the battleground to the training fields, Lockheed Martin completes its comprehensive product line by supporting the only supersonic advanced jet trainer in the industry, the T-50. Co-produced with Korea Aerospace Industries, this aircraft inaugurates a new generation of jet trainers with its fighter-like performance, digital flight control systems, multi-mode radar and a wide range of air-to-air and air-to-ground training weapons. The T-50 will further prove its evolutionary characteristics by offering two versions, the advanced trainer and lead-in fighter trainer (LIFT), which will have even more attack capabilities.

"We created an aircraft that meets the need for an advanced, supersonic jet trainer, yet the T-50 also anticipates future combat requirements through its LIFT version," Bean said. "This exciting program effectively bridges the training gap in the 21st century."

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., a business area of Lockheed Martin, is a leader in the design, development, systems integration, production and support of advanced military aircraft and related technologies. Its customers include the military services of the United States and allied countries throughout the world. Products include the F-16, F/A-22, F-35 JSF, F-117, T-50, C-5, C-27J, C-130, C-130J, P-3, S-3 and U-2.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin employs about 130,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation reported 2002 sales of $26.6 billion.

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SOURCE: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company