Lockheed Martin , the Australian College of Kuwait (ACK) and the National Offset Company (NOC) announced the premiere of a state-of-the-art Maritime Simulation and Training Facility at the ACK campus today.

As a global leader in maritime systems and simulation training solutions, Lockheed Martin combined expertise from both arenas to provide customized high-tech maritime simulation and training devices to the facility. The advanced training technology will support the maritime and engineering programs offered by the college.

"Lockheed Martin is committed to bringing innovation, creativity and best value to our customers and partners," said Joe Garland, Lockheed Martin Vice President for International Business Development. "We are all extremely proud to provide this advanced simulation and training center to Kuwait. It demonstrates Lockheed Martin's dedication to long-term technology skills transfer in the spirit of Kuwait's offset program."

The multi-faceted training facility uses the latest maritime simulation technologies to provide effective and realistic hands-on training for Kuwait's petroleum, transport, maritime, maritime security and defense-related industries. The Center will also provide specialized ancillary training for the Kuwait Defense Forces and maritime security organizations.

"Since its inception in September 2006, NOC has been working closely with international companies like Lockheed Martin to create win-win partnerships," said Mr. Mazen Madooh, General Manager of the National Offset Company. "This program is sustainable and conducive to increase value added in the national economy, observing both social and economic objectives."

The facility currently houses three maritime training simulators: vessel operations, port operations and global maritime distress and safety system simulators. The integrative capability between the simulators provides a revolutionary net-centric training ability to users. Initial course offerings will include bridge watchkeeping, coastal navigation, officer of the watch, advanced ship handling, maritime resource management and other advanced maritime related courses.

Lockheed Martin is the leading provider of maritime systems, and simulation and training solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense and international forces around the world.

"This state-of-the-art, multi-faceted training center will enhance the learning opportunities offered at ACK. We are excited for our students who will benefit enormously from this significant development," said Mr. Abdullah Al Sharhan, chairman of the Australian College of Kuwait.

The NOC is a government-owned shareholder's company that manages the Kuwait Offset Program for and on behalf of Kuwait Ministry of Finance as per a management contract.

The Australian College of Kuwait operates from a purpose-built campus in Mishref, Kuwait, attracting students from throughout the Gulf Region and offers a state-of-the-art training facility from which to deliver a wide variety of training programs.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security company that employs about 146,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2008 sales of $42.7 billion.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

SOURCE: Lockheed Martin