PARIS, France, June 22, 2017 –  Derco, a Lockheed Martin Company (NYSE:LMT), has been chosen by Global Defense Solutions (GDS) LP as the exclusive distributor for all direct commercial sales of the C-130 E/H/J Loadmaster Crashworthy Seat (CWS). The CWS is certified for C-130 E-J aircraft (IAW TCTO 1C-130-2010). Previously only available to international C-130 operators through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, the CWS is now available via direct commercial sales through Derc

“This is a great benefit to operators who value safe and proven loadmaster seats that are designed with personnel comfort in mind,” said Kaan Tuncel, director of strategic partnerships at Derco. “This agreement with GDS allows us to offer customers immediate availability and alternative commercial options for this type of aircraft modification program.”

Derived from a commercially available baseline seat frame, the seat is designed with armored options, four-point adjustable harness, fireproofing, and survivability through 9g crash load. The seat kit includes brackets permanently installed on the aircraft. The brackets allow for easy installation and repositioning of the seat within minutes without requiring tools.

“The CWS is specifically designed to allow for optimal aircrew safety and convenience.  Installation is quick and adjustments can be readily made without affecting aircraft availability,” said Global Defense Solutions LP President Kevin B. Suckman. “We want to continue on our successful U.S. Air Force program and allow international C-130 operators to access this innovative safety product. We put the same thought into our distribution partner as we did our manufacturing and production of the kits. Derco has a reputation for excellence and this is the channel to aftermarket distribution that we trust for our customers.”

About Global Defense Solutions, LP

GDS is a Service-Disabled, Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) based in Warner Robins, GA. GDS provides engineering design, logistics, and manufacturing services for the Department of Defense and US Allies around the world. GDS works with quality partners to offer a unique blend of operational experience, sustainment expertise, and technology savvy leadership to understand how the technology works and is employed. GDS has been producing the C-130 loadmaster CWS for four years with over 500 kits delivered to the US Air Force. GDS was recognized for their successful execution of the C-130 Loadmaster Crashworthy Seat (CWS) program in the June 2015 U.S. Air Force Small Business Matters Newsletter. 

About Derco

Founded in 1979, Derco, a Lockheed Martin Company based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a recognized leader in providing aircraft spares distribution, logistics, component repair, and technical solutions to customers around the globe. Through solid relationships with premier original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), Derco maintains one of the largest and most diversified aircraft spares inventories in the world. Today, Derco is an integrator and full service logistics solutions provider supporting military and commercial fleets in 65 countries.

About Lockheed Martin

Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 97,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.